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Post-traumatic Hypersomnia

Description

Post-traumatic hypersomnia is defined by excessive sleepiness following a traumatic event in the sufferer’s life. Patients report excessive sleepiness during the day which typically cannot be combated by any amount of sleep.

Diagnosis

Aside from patients reporting excessive sleepiness, the disorder typically is associated with other post-traumatic symptoms such as headaches, fatigue and an inability to concentrate. Patients will report sleepiness regardless of the time actually spent sleeping. The sleepiness is also neurologically associated with head trauma. No other mental or physical disorder is responsible for the symptoms. Severe cases impair the patient’s involvement in work and social situations.

Treatment

All hypersomnias are generally treated through medication, paired with proper sleep hygiene which includes avoiding alcohol and caffeine, getting daily exercise and maintaining a normal time to sleep and wake-up. Prescribed medication can include amphetamine, methylphenidate and other stimulants.

Source: Adapted from International Classification of Sleep Disorders Diagnostic & Coding Manual, American Academy of Sleep Medicine.