Daytime Sleepiness

Excessive daytime sleepiness is often associated with two common sleep disorders: narcolepsy and sleep apnea.

Narcolepsy symptoms include falling asleep at times when one should normally be able to stay awake; muscular weakness or sleepiness when angry, surprised or amused; and feeling sleepy most of the day.

People who snore loudly may have pauses in their breathing, ending with a loud snort or gasp, a condition called sleep apnea. While these people may not be aware of the problem, a spouse or family member usually is. A potentially serious condition, sleep apnea may lead to various medical problems including sleepiness, fatigue, high blood pressure, difficulties with memory and other cognitive processes, and changes in personality.