Drowsiness is condition in which the patient sleeps during the day and can lead to falling asleep in inappropriate situations and at inappropriate times. This excessive daytime sleep may be a symptom of an inadequate rest associated with: shift work, depression, stress, anxiety, but also physical problems such as chronic pain, diabetes, abnormal levels of sodium, narcolepsy, sleep apnea, hypothyroidism, hypercalcemia or taking certain medications (such as antihistamines or tranquilizers).
What kind of diseases can be associated with drowsiness?
The following diseases may be associated with drowsiness:
- Metabolic acidosis
- Acromegaly
- Anemia
- Anxiety
- Sleep apnea
- Botulism
- Bruxism
- Headache
- Liver cirrhosis
- Diabetes
- Gastritis
- Stroke
- Influence
- Heart failure
- Kidney failure
- Food intolerance
- Carbon monoxide poisoning
- Hypothyroidism
- Leukemia
- Meningitis
- Parkinson's disease
- Narcolepsy
- Cold
- Gastroesophageal reflux
- Multiple sclerosis
- Premenstrual syndrome
- African trypanosomiasis
Remember that this is not an exhaustive list and it is highly recommended to consult your doctor, in case of symptom’s persistence.
What is the therapy for drowsiness?
The best remedy in case of drowsiness depends on the base cause. In some cases it may be enough to: go to bed and wake up at the same time, as well as to avoid going to bed immediately after eating, keep the bedroom temperature suitable to rest, avoid the intake of exciting early in the afternoon and turn off televisions, computers and other technological tools at least half an hour before bedtime. Other times it may be necessary resorting to the remedies that favor a good sleep, while in other cases are necessary specific drugs for the treatment of pathology leading to insomnia, such as a hormone therapy replacement in case of insomnia due the flushes associated with the menopause. In some cases it may even be necessary to adjust the dose of certain drugs taken is, however, that absolutely not recommended to do without first checking with your doctor.
The solutions may be many and very different. To find one that fits your case, you should talk about the problem with your doctor.
When is most likely to contact your doctor in case of drowsiness?
If drowsiness is not an occasional problem and interferes with the quality of life, it is good to seek medical attention and identify the most suitable treatment to the case. In case of sudden sleepiness and associated with symptoms that could indicate a more serious problem it is rather well to seek emergency care.
