Chapter 14

Idiopathic Hypersomnia

Dan Cohen, Asim Roy and Randip Singh

Abstract

<p>Idiopathic hypersomnia is an uncommon disorder, but it is serious and needs attention. It is very disabling to patients and can result in motor vehicle accident, difficulty with school or maintaining a job. It can also place stress on families or relationships. It is usually diagnosed by excluding other disorders causing similar symptoms. Individuals with this disorder often sleep for long periods during the night and in addition may nap for prolonged periods during the day and despite all this sleep they continue to display daytime sleepiness. The cause of this disorder is unknown. It seems most people have this problem lifelong but there are instances when people have spontaneous improvement [1]. The typical approach is to modify lifestyle and use medications to help with daytime alertness.</p>

Total Pages: 43-44 (2)

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