Treatment of Excessive Daytime Sleepiness
The treatment of excessive daytime sleepiness focuses on correcting the root cause and improving sleep quality. Excessive daytime sleepiness may respond to lifestyle changes, medical therapies, or specific treatments for sleep disorders. Early intervention can restore energy levels and prevent accidents.
Lifestyle Changes
For many people, better sleep habits make a significant difference:
Get 7–9 hours of sleep nightly, aiming for a consistent bedtime and wake time
Avoid caffeine and alcohol several hours before bed
Create a quiet, dark, and cool sleeping environment
Avoid screens at least 1 hour before bedtime
Exercise regularly, but not right before bed
Improving sleep hygiene may reduce or eliminate mild daytime sleepiness.
Medical Treatments
Treatment depends on the underlying condition:
1. Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA)
CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) is the first-line treatment. It keeps the airway open during sleep, improving oxygen levels and restoring restful sleep.
Weight loss and positional therapy may also help.
2. Narcolepsy
Stimulants such as modafinil or methylphenidate may be prescribed to keep patients awake during the day
Sodium oxybate, in some cases, improves nighttime sleep and reduces daytime sleepiness
3. Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)
Treated with dopaminergic agents, iron supplements, or lifestyle adjustments
4. Depression or Anxiety
Managed with antidepressants, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and stress reduction strategies
5. Hypothyroidism or Anaemia
Treated with thyroxine or iron and vitamin B12 supplements, respectively
Behavioural Therapies
Cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) can improve sleep patterns and reduce daytime fatigue
Sleep restriction therapy helps reset the body’s internal clock in cases of delayed sleep phase disorder
Driving and Safety
Patients should be advised not to drive or operate heavy machinery if their sleepiness is severe or untreated. Regular follow-ups are essential for people using sedating medications or those with a history of accidents.
Treatment of Excessive Daytime Sleepiness In South Africa
In South Africa, access to CPAP machines and sleep medications may be limited in public healthcare. However, lifestyle changes and basic treatments like iron or thyroid supplements are widely available and effective. Better training of primary care providers in sleep medicine could improve outcomes.
The treatment of excessive daytime sleepiness restores productivity, improves mood, and reduces health risks. Most people improve significantly once the cause is found and addressed.
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