Before discussing how insomnia and hypersomnia are each treated, it may be helpful to clarify exactly what the difference is between these two conditions. Insomnia—the more common of the two disorders—is characterized by having trouble falling asleep and/or staying asleep. Hypersomnia, on the other hand, occurs when someone feels excessively tired during the day even after having slept for a long amount of time.
In some instances, insomnia develops on its own. This condition, known as “primary insomnia,” is often treated using medication or cognitive behavioral therapy. In other cases, insomnia will result from another health condition (for example, anxiety, depression, arthritis, asthma, or acid reflux). It can also be caused by taking certain medications or engaging in certain habits (such as going to bed at irregular times, looking at a screen right before falling asleep, or consuming alcohol or illegal drugs). Referred to as “secondary insomnia,” this condition can often be resolved by addressing the underlying cause of the sleeplessness.
Like insomnia, hypersomnia comes in primary and secondary forms. The exact cause of primary hypersomnia is still unknown, but researchers believe this condition may be caused by problems in the parts of the brain that control sleep. Secondary hypersomnia, on the other hand, often results from conditions that prevent someone from getting a good night’s sleep, such as sleep apnea. Hypersomnia treatment may involve making certain lifestyle changes or taking stimulant medications that are designed to keep someone awake during the day.
When you need top-notch pulmonology care or treatment for a sleep disorder, we’re the specialist you can trust. We provide state-of-the-art diagnostics, comprehensive treatment, and patient-centric service.
The experienced team of medical providers at West Coast Pulmonary & Sleep Disorders Center is here to provide you with top-notch care that goes above and beyond to meet your needs. All of our providers are board-certified in internal medicine and many also hold additional board certifications in pulmonary disease, sleep medicine, and critical care medicine. Our bilingual staff can speak English and Spanish for our patients’ convenience.
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1910 Outlet Center Drive
Oxnard, CA 93036
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Camarillo, CA 93012
2851 N. Ventura Rd., Suite 201
Oxnard, CA 93036
1910 Outlet Center Drive
Oxnard, CA 93036
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