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What causes excessive sleepiness in the elderly?

Sep 13, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, excessive sleepiness in the elderly may be caused by physiological degeneration, overexertion, anemia, hypothyroidism, Alzheimer's disease, or other factors. It is important to maintain regular sleep habits, engage in moderate physical activity, follow a balanced diet to prevent anemia, promptly adjust lifestyle behaviors, and maintain a positive mindset to promote overall health.

Generally, excessive sleepiness in the elderly may be caused by factors such as aging, overexertion, anemia, hypothyroidism, or Alzheimer's disease. If discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is recommended. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. Aging

With advancing age, the elderly experience a decline in the brain's ability to process information, which may lead to excessive sleepiness. Elderly individuals should maintain regular sleep patterns, engage in moderate physical activity to promote cerebral blood circulation, participate in social activities, and maintain a positive mood.

2. Overexertion

Prolonged physical or mental labor without adequate recovery can lead to extreme fatigue and subsequent drowsiness. Elderly individuals should incorporate mild exercises into their daily routine, such as walking or practicing tai chi, to aid physical recovery.

3. Anemia

Due to an unbalanced diet, elderly individuals may develop anemia, leading to cerebral hypoxia and resulting in excessive sleepiness. Symptoms may include pallor, palpitations, and shortness of breath. It is advisable for older adults to consume iron-rich foods such as spinach and pork liver. Additionally, treatment under medical guidance may include medications like ferrous sulfate tablets, enalapril maleate folic acid tablets, and Yiqi Weixue granules.

4. Hypothyroidism

Insufficient iodine intake in the elderly can lead to hypothyroidism, reducing nervous system excitability and causing excessive sleepiness. Symptoms may also include cold intolerance, fatigue, and weight gain. Elderly individuals can increase iodine intake by consuming seaweed and, under a doctor’s supervision, take medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets, Yikang capsules, or Bailing capsules.

5. Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease, possibly caused by brain degeneration, leads to cognitive impairment and may result in excessive sleepiness. Common symptoms include memory loss, emotional disturbances, and cognitive decline. Elderly individuals should ensure sufficient daily sleep and, upon medical advice, may use medications such as donepezil hydrochloride tablets, rivastigmine tartrate capsules, or oxiracetam capsules for treatment.

In daily life, it is important to maintain regular作息 habits, engage in moderate physical activity, follow a balanced diet to prevent anemia, adjust lifestyle promptly, and maintain a positive mindset to support overall health.

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