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Hypersomnia Vs Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

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The Epworth Sleepiness Scale

Scientists Discover Robust Evidence That Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) Is a Biological Illness

The ‘Epworth sleepiness scale’ is also a self-reported questionnaire that measures the general level of sleepiness in a day The patients have to rate specific daily situations by means of a scale going from 0 to 3 . The results found in the ESS correlate with the sleep latency indicated by the Multiple Sleep Latency Test.

When To Get In Touch With A Doctor

Sleepiness or fatigue can warrant a doctors visit. You should schedule an appointment with your doctor if you feel like sleepiness or fatigue is having a negative impact on your everyday life, especially since theres a chance they could indicate an underlying condition.

Depending on your situation, your doctor may recommend better sleep hygiene practices, prescribe medication, or help you pin down an underlying cause.

They may also refer you to a sleep specialist to diagnose your condition and come up with a treatment plan. If your sleepiness or fatigue is caused by a sleep disorder like narcolepsy or sleep apnea, its especially important to work with an expert to get proper treatment.

Causes Of Idiopathic Hypersomnia

While the exact causes of IH are not known, researchers have investigated a number of potential factors that may contribute to the development of idiopathic hypersomnia. Several studies have looked at the potential roles of neurotransmitters, including orexins, dopamine, serotonin, histamines, and gamma-aminobutyric acid . Research suggests that there may also be a genetic component to IH since a family history of the condition is present in 26% to 39% of IH patients.

Although one diagnostic criteria for IH is that its symptoms arent caused by a circadian rhythm disorder, some research suggests that there may be a connection between IH and the bodys internal clock. Studies have found that the regulation of certain genes involved in circadian rhythm may be different in people with IH.

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Symptoms Of Idiopathic Hypersomnia

  • difficulty remaining awake and attentive during the day
  • Falling asleep unintentionally at inopportune times
  • Difficulty waking up after sleeping all night or after daytime naps

Other indicators of IH include excessive sleeping which can be upwards of 10 hours at night. sleep drunkenness is another indicator. This is where a person vacillates between various stages of being awake up to four hours after initially waking up. This state can lead to people being violent, clumsy and irritable, and can sometimes occur following naps as well.

Sleep deprivation and idiopathic hypersomnia have similar symptoms. The difference however is that once someone who is sleep deprived gets additional sleep, most of the symptoms are resolved. This additional sleep is referred to as paying off a sleep debt. This isnt the case for idiopathic hypersomnia. With IH, getting extra sleep does not erase the feeling of excessive sleepiness or other common symptoms associated with it.

Frequency And Severity Of Autonomic Symptoms In Idiopathic Hypersomnia

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Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California

Stanford Center for Sleep Sciences and Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University Medical Center, Redwood City, California

Stanford Center for Sleep Sciences and Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University Medical Center, Redwood City, California

Stanford/VA Alzheimers Center, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California

Sierra Pacific Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Centers, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California

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The Difference Between Hypersomnia And Narcolepsy

Idiopathic hypersomnia is often compared to narcolepsy because both disorders share a few traits. There are a few key differentiators, too. Narcoleptics often suffer from nighttime sleep disturbances, which doesnt tend to be an issue for those suffering from Idiopathic Hypersomnia.

Another distinct aspect of narcolepsy is that it can lead to a sudden compulsion to fall asleep, without any warning signs. This is unavoidable, whereas those suffering from hypersomnia can often force themselves to stay awake despite the overwhelming desire and need to sleep.

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What Are The Treatment Options For Hypersomnia

Treatments for this condition can vary, depending on the cause of your hypersomnia.

Many drugs intended for narcolepsy can treat hypersomnia. These include amphetamine, methylphenidate, and modafinil. These drugs are stimulants that help you feel more awake.

Lifestyle changes are a critical part of the treatment process. A doctor may recommend getting on a regular sleeping schedule. Avoiding certain activities can also improve symptoms, especially around bedtime. Most people with hypersomnia shouldnt drink alcohol or use drugs. A doctor may also recommend a high-nutrition diet to maintain energy levels naturally.

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Treatment For Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Unfortunately, there is no cure for ME/CFS. People with the disorder shouldnt give up hope, however. A variety of treatments may be used to lessen or eliminate symptoms.

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy . CBT teaches patients how to recognize fears of potential fatigue. With the aid of CBT, patients can also learn how to redirect thoughts that may provide a more positive outlook about recovery.
  • Exercise. Through graded exercise therapy, patients with ME/CFS exercise to increase overall physical and mental function.
  • Sleep Management. Poor sleep is a common symptom of ME/CFS. Treatment of sleep disorders that accompany ME/CFS can lessen its overall effects. Patients can begin by improving their sleep hygiene. However, additional steps, such as prescription medications or therapies for specific sleep disorders may be necessary.
  • Pharmacologic Therapy. Currently, there are no drugs that specifically target ME/CFS. Instead, patients may take drugs to treat symptoms of ME/CFS, such as pain, depression, and sleep deprivation.
  • Stress Reduction and Relaxation. Certain practices can help with managing chronic pain and fatigue. These include meditation, massage, and acupuncture.

Adele: My Idiopathic Hypersomnia Diagnosis Story

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome | Triggers, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment

1/17/2022 1:36:13 PM

I donât really know exactly when it began, all I know is I started noticing strange symptoms when I was in VCE. I was finding it difficult to concentrate, feeling tired all the time, struggling to get out of bed in the morning and losing my memory. At first, I brushed it off and thought, maybe I just need more sleep. As time went on, I began to feel like I was going crazy, my memory loss had gotten much worse, I was doing things without consciously being aware of it and falling asleep during the day in random places like the doctors waiting room. I downloaded brain training apps to help improve my memory, but it continued to worsen. The only explanation I could think of was early onset dementia.At this point in time, I didnât know that in a few yearsâ time my whole world would be flipped upside down.

Narcolepsy â short naps are refreshing, sleep-onset REM, sleep paralysis, hallucinations, sleep attacks that last a few seconds to a few minutes, cataplexy , vivid dreams, and disrupted sleep.What symptoms are the same?Excessive Daytime Sleepiness , automatic behaviour, memory issues, insomnia, and brain fog.

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Where Is Research Headed

Abbott says thereâs a lot of interest in the GABA hypothesis. Most ongoing research is in that area because some anti-GABA drugs can reverse symptoms in some people with IH. In the future, there may be more drugs like this made specifically for IH.

âItâs a disorder we still donât know a lot about and donât have great treatments for,â Abbott says. âBut as I tell my patients, there are people actively researching it. Hopefully, 5 or 10 years from now, weâre going to have better answers in terms of what causes it and what treats it.â

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How To Get Better Sleep

Sleep has a huge impact on our everyday lives. If you are seeking to get better sleep, you can try these additional tactics to fall asleep fast and increase deep sleep below.

  • Create a consistent bedtime routine. Whether its a warm shower before bed or a sleep playlist, sticking with a relaxing, 30- to 60-minute routine may help your body wind down.
  • Set the right temperature. The ideal sleep temperature for adults is 60-67 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Listen to pink or white noise. Some find these soothing sounds that sound a bit like TV static or nature sounds like rain and waterfalls helpful when trying to fall asleep.
  • Try a sleep mask. If you have street lamps peeking through your window or your partner likes to read with a light on, you can try blocking out light with a comfortable sleep mask.
  • Do a body scan. With this relaxation technique, you mindfully focus on each section of your body until it feels completely relaxed.

Your bed is an essential component of restful nights. At Casper, we want you to get your best sleep in order to be the best version of you during the day. Browse our selection of mattresses, pillows, and more to help you create your coziest bed yet.

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How To Combat Excessive Daytime Sleepiness

EDS can get in the way of work, school, and home life. If a lack of sleep causes your EDS, you can keep the following sleep tips in mind to try to improve your nightly rest:

  • Get eight hours of sleep each night
  • Leave the phone out of bed
  • Get regular exercise
  • Avoid alcohol and caffeine before bed
  • Try to avoid naps in the afternoon
  • Dont work late into the night

However, if excessive daytime sleepiness is significantly impacting your life and the above tips arent working, you should visit your doctor.

Idiopathic Hypersomnia And Narcolepsy Type 2

Excessive daytime sleepiness in sleep disorders

Even with specific criteria for classifying different central disorders of hypersomnolence, there is controversy surrounding how to distinguish idiopathic hypersomnia from narcolepsy type 2. Long sleep times, which are oftenbut not alwaysseen in patients with IH, are also seen in 18% of people with narcolepsy. Limitations of the MSLT in measuring sleep latency and the time to reach REM sleep have resulted in many researchers noting that current testing sometimes cannot reliably tell these two conditions apart.

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What Is Excessive Daytime Sleepiness Sleepiness Vs Fatigue

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Please consult your doctor if you are experiencing these symptoms.

Sleep has a huge impact on our everyday lives. Yet, our State of Sleep in America study found that 1 in 3 adults describe their sleep the previous night as fair or poor.

Poor sleep or lack of sleep can make you feel drowsy and miserable during the day. However, the problem can be even worse for those with excessive daytime sleepiness.

If you suffer from excessive daytime sleepiness or daytime fatigue, tiredness and lack of energy during work, school, or other activities it can seriously affect your day-to-day life.

In this article, well explain the difference between daytime fatigue and excessive daytime sleepiness, as well as the symptoms and causes of both. Well also share tips on getting better sleep and when to see a sleep specialist for help.

What Causes Excessive Sleepiness

There are many possible causes of excessive daytime sleepiness. One of the most common reasons is a chronic lack of sleep, whether due to long work hours, an irregular schedule, insomnia, or other reasons.

Excessive sleepiness can also be caused by getting fragmented or otherwise poor-quality sleep. Getting up multiple times a night to use the washroom, for example, disrupts the natural progression of the sleep stages and may reduce the proportion of restorative slow-wave sleep. Smoking, not exercising enough, and other lifestyle habits may also interfere with sleep quality and cause daytime sleepiness.

Many people who experience excessive daytime sleepiness dont appear to have any problems sleeping enough. In these cases, sleepiness may be a sign of an underlying health condition or sleep disorder.

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Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Symptoms

Most people diagnosed with ME/CFS were functioning at a normal level prior to their diagnosis. The arrival of ME/CFS is often abrupt and sometimes follows a stressful medical or psychological event.

The core symptoms of ME/CFS are:

  • Severe, continued fatigue even after rest. This fatigue reduces the ability to perform typical daily activities
  • Worsened fatigue after mental or physical activity.
  • Sleep problems, which may include difficulty falling or staying asleep.

People with ME/CFS also experience one or both of the following:

  • Difficulty with memory, thinking, or concentrating. Patients may struggle to recall information or experience brain fog or foggy thinking.
  • Increased symptoms when standing or sitting up. Dizziness, lightheadedness, or weakness can happen upon standing or sitting upright.

Additional symptoms may include:

Feeling Exhausted Hypersomnia And Excessive Daytime Sleepiness

What Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

by Sleep Center of Middle Tennessee | Apr 24, 2020

We only recommend products in our blog that we recommend in our office. We may receive a small commission on some products but it does not change the price you pay .

Do you routinely find yourself feeling extremely groggy and tired, even after youve had a full night of sleep? Perhaps youre taking naps and still feel exhausted. If you have trouble staying awake during the day, despite the number of hours you sleep and experience excessive daytime sleepiness, you may have hypersomnia.

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Treating The Most Disruptive Symptoms First And Preventing Worsening Of Symptoms

Healthcare providers and patients need to establish which symptoms are most disruptive or disabling and tailor management plans accordingly. Treatment should be directed toward the most problematic symptoms as prioritized by the patient. It is also important to incorporate strategies to prevent worsening of symptoms into initial and subsequent treatment plans.

The Mystery Behind Idiopathic Hypersomnia

Idiopathic hypersomnia is a rare neurological disorder. Treatment can help, but thereâs no cure. You may snooze upwards of 9 hours a night without feeling refreshed. You may fight to wake up in the morning. Your sleepiness may persist or get worse, even when you take lengthy naps during the day.

If you live with IH, youâd probably like to know whatâs causing your symptoms. Unfortunately, thatâs not something experts have figured out yet.

âLiterally, the name idiopathic hypersomnia means youâre sleepy and we donât know why,â says Sabra Abbott, MD, assistant professor of neurology and sleep medicine at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago.

Lots of sleep specialists are trying to solve the IH puzzle, including Lynn Marie Trotti, MD, associate professor of neurology at Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta. Sleep disorders tend to run in families, so your genes likely have something to do with it. But Trotti says she and her colleagues still donât know the main source of all this extra sleepiness.

âThe big mystery really is what causes idiopathic hypersomnia,â Trotti says.

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Symptoms Of Daytime Fatigue

According to Medical News Today, below are some common symptoms of fatigue. Note that these are just a few, and this isnt an all-encompassing list. Speak to a medical professional for more information.

  • Lack of energy during the day
  • Lack of motivation
  • Sleep apnea
  • Insomnia

Fatigue can also be a sign of chronic fatigue syndrome, which is long-term, overwhelming fatigue that does not improve with rest. It can last for months or years and negatively affects your quality of life. There is no known cause for chronic fatigue syndrome yet, but you can treat symptoms with the help of a physician.

Central Disorders Of Hypersomnolence

Pin on idiopathic hypersomnia

Central Disorders of Hypersomnolence are probably more common than the studies would suggest and are not often recognised. Often a patient will have symptoms of these disorders for many years before the condition is properly diagnosed. GPs and some Specialists can easily miss the diagnosis as the symptoms are non-specific and patients may otherwise appear to be young and healthy . Sometimes patients may have been misdiagnosed as having depression or chronic fatigue syndrome.

Generally sufferers describe marked tiredness and sleepiness during the day with long sleep needs and/or frequent daytime napping. Because of these symptoms they cannot work or socialise properly and their family time is affected. The diagnosis of these conditions requires a detailed sleep disorders history and assessment. In particular, other possible causes such as obstructive sleep apnoea, sleep deprivation, insomnia, leg movements at night time, medications, sleep phase disturbances, and chronic medical or mental health conditions need to be excluded as causes or contributors. Then further testing is required with overnight and daytime sleep studies.

Narcolepsy and idiopathic hypersomnolence are examples of Central Disorders of Hypersomnolence. Importantly and rewardingly, with the correct diagnosis and treatment, sufferers recover good alertness during the day and are much more functional in their day to day activities. They can drive safely and manage social, work and family commitments well.

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Tips For Coping With Idiopathic Hypersomnia

In addition to medical treatments for idiopathic hypersomnia, the following lifestyle changes may help reduce symptoms and avoid injury caused by excessive tiredness:

  • Avoid anything that makes the condition worse: Alcohol, caffeine, and some medications may make the symptoms of IH more severe, so talk with a doctor or specialist about what to avoid in terms of diet and medication.
  • Be careful about driving: Driving a car or operating equipment can be dangerous for people with IH. Work with doctors, employers, and loved ones to make appropriate lifestyle and workplace adaptations.
  • Avoiding the night shift: Any activity that delays a persons bedtime should be avoided in patients with IH. Always going to bed at the same time, even on weekends, may minimize symptoms.

Many people with IH find it helpful to talk to a psychologist, counselor, or support group to learn to cope with the significant challenges caused by IH symptoms. Educating employers, family, and friends about IH may also be helpful, so accommodations can be made at school, work, and in relationships.

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