Why Do I Experience Recurring Periods Of Excessive Sleepiness?

Do you experience extreme sleepiness, a strong desire to go to bed and trouble getting up in the morning?

Is the fatigue so severe during an episode, that it's not uncommon for you to sleep for up to 20 hours a day?

Do you experience hallucinations?

Are you disorientated?

Are you irritable?

Do you feel like you have a very large appetite?

Do you show childish behavior?

Do you experience an excessive sex drive?

Based on your answers, it is unlikely that you have a clinical problem that involves excessive sleepiness. Some people, however, suffer from Sleeping Beauty syndrome, also called Kleine-Levin syndrome (KLS). This is a rare condition that causes periods of excessive sleepiness. People who struggle with this condition may even sleep up to 20 hours a day. Episodes of excessive sleep come and go. During an episode it may be hard for a patient to function normally. Going to school or to work will be an impossible task.

Based on your answers, you are displaying some signs of a clinical problem related to excessive sleepiness. The signs may be related to Sleeping Beauty syndrome, also called Kleine-Levin syndrome (KLS). Affected individuals may sleep up to 20 hours per day and fatigue can be so extreme that people stay in bed until an episode passes. The disease can cause changes in behavior and make a person feel confused. During an episode it may be impossible for individuals to do their daily activities, such as going to school or work. Between episodes, affected individuals are not likely to show any signs of the disorder. If you are concerned about your symptoms, schedule an appointment with your doctor.

Unfortunately, you are displaying various symptoms typically seen among individuals who have Sleeping Beauty syndrome. Sleeping Beauty syndrome, also called Kleine-Levin syndrome (KLS), is a rare condition that causes periods of excessive sleepiness, sometimes even up to 20 hours per day. Because symptoms of KLS can mimic other health conditions, it’s important to get evaluated by a doctor. Several medications may help you manage your symptoms, to reduce the duration of an episode and to prevent new episodes. Living with KLS can have a huge impact on your life. If you are experiencing symptoms, schedule an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible.