What causes prolonged drowsiness?
Disease description:
Recently, I've been experiencing prolonged drowsiness and feel lethargic during the day, often feeling sleepy. What could be causing this? Could you please explain what prolonged drowsiness indicates?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Lv Zhiqin
Long-term excessive daytime sleepiness, known as hypersomnia, may be caused by the following factors:
1. Sleep problems: chronic sleep deprivation, such as frequently staying up late, or poor sleep quality, such as frequent dreaming at night, can prevent the body from getting sufficient rest, thereby causing daytime drowsiness.
2. Medical conditions: diseases such as anemia, diabetes, and hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid). Particularly hypothyroidism, due to decreased secretion of thyroid hormones, slows down the body's overall metabolism, which may lead to symptoms such as slowed reflexes, loss of interest, and excessive sleepiness.
3. Medications: certain drugs may cause drowsiness as a side effect, such as cold medicines, antiepileptic drugs, and sleeping pills.
4. Psychological factors: emotional issues such as excessive stress, anxiety, and depression can potentially trigger hypersomnia.
5. Unhealthy lifestyle habits may also increase the risk of excessive sleepiness, such as lack of physical activity, and prolonged sitting or lying down.
If excessive sleepiness persists or worsens, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly.
