Oversleeping or hypersomnia is a sleep disorder that can have a significant impact on an individual's daily life. It is characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness, even after sleeping 10 or more hours a night. While everyone has different sleep needs, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends that schoolchildren get nine hours of sleep per night, teens get eight to 10 hours, and adults may need seven hours or more. However, some people may naturally require up to 10 to 12 hours of sleep per night.
Why so Sleepy?!.. There are various reasons why someone might oversleep. An increase in physical activity, stress, jet lag, or recovering from illness or surgery can all cause oversleeping. Mental health conditions like depression or a history of trauma can also trigger oversleeping. Sleep disorders like sleep apnea or narcolepsy can cause oversleeping too. Nutritional factors and substance abuse are also linked to oversleeping. Certain medications or withdrawal from medication can cause oversleeping.
To improve sleep hygiene, individuals should consider making positive lifestyle choices like physical activity, nutrition, stress management, and social support. The National Institutes of Health recommends sticking to a consistent sleep schedule, getting daily exercise, going outside for natural light exposure, avoiding nicotine and caffeine at least eight hours before sleep, avoiding naps after mid-afternoon, limiting electronic devices used for 30 minutes before bedtime, and avoiding lying in bed awake.
Quality Sleep is Essential!.. If these lifestyle changes do not improve sleep quality, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if there is an underlying medical condition or needs for better stress management strategies. A healthcare professional can also help determine if there is a need for further diagnostic testing, like a sleep study, to identify any sleep disorders that may be causing oversleeping.
In conclusion, oversleeping can be a serious sleep disorder that can affect an individual's daily life. While some factors, like mental health conditions or sleep disorders, can be the underlying cause of oversleeping, making positive lifestyle choices like regular physical activity, good nutrition, stress management, and social support can help improve sleep hygiene.
Important!.. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional if oversleeping persists despite lifestyle changes, as they can help determine if there is an underlying medical condition or need for further diagnostic testing.
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