Why am I sleeping too much all of a sudden?

“I’ve been feeling unusually tired lately and sleeping a lot more than usual, even after a full night’s rest. Why am I sleeping too much all of a sudden?”

Dr. Janyele Sales
Family Doctor CRM 177392-SP

Sleeping too much all of a sudden can sometimes be related to a medical condition, but it is often temporary and caused by fatigue, poor quality sleep, or stress.

Sleep needs can vary from person to person, depending on age and stage of life. Teenagers, older adults, and pregnant people may naturally sleep more, both at night and during the day.

However, if sleepiness is excessive, affects daily activities, or has no clear cause, it may be a sign of an underlying problem. Possible causes include narcolepsy, idiopathic hypersomnia, sleep apnea or another sleep-related breathing disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, depression, other psychiatric conditions, restless legs syndrome, or other movement disorders.

If excessive sleepiness continues, consider seeing a sleep specialist or your primary care provider for a proper evaluation and guidance on treatment.

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