Hypersomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by excessive sleepiness or prolonged amounts of sleep. People with hypersomnia may have difficulty staying awake during the day, even if they have slept for a normal or prolonged amount of time at night. This condition can affect a person's ability to function in their daily environment, including work, school, or social activities.
Hypersomnia can occur in two main forms: primary hypersomnia, which occurs in the absence of other medical conditions and is likely due to problems with the central nervous system; and secondary hypersomnia, which is caused by other medical conditions, such as depression, obesity, epilepsy, or certain central nervous system diseases, all of which can cause excessive sleepiness.
Common symptoms of hypersomnia include excessive daytime sleepiness, difficulty waking up (including confusion or disorientation after waking), prolonged sleep at night, drowsiness or lethargy, and problems with memory or concentration.
Diagnosis of hypersomnia is usually made using a combination of medical history, physical examination, and sleep tests such as polysomnography or maintenance of wakefulness testing. Treatment may include lifestyle changes, medications to promote wakefulness, and treatment of underlying medical conditions if necessary.
As part of the lifestyle modification approach, it is crucial to maintain good sleep hygiene, including choosing an appropriate mattress. A quality mattress, such as the Alba Original Mattress, can help improve the quality of sleep. Thanks to its 100% natural latex cover, it offers balanced support for different parts of the body, promoting better posture during sleep and, consequently, deeper and more restful sleep. This can help reduce the symptoms of hypersomnia and improve the quality of life of people with this condition.