Exercise, diet, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness are a few options you can add to your idiopathic hypersomnia treatment plan.

Idiopathic hypersomnia is a neurological sleep disorder classified as one of several central disorders of hypersomnolence (feeling excessively tired despite a full night’s sleep).

Idiopathic hypersomnia features prolonged nighttime sleeping, nonrestorative naps, and excessive daytime sleepiness. Excessive daytime sleepiness is an overwhelming and irresistible need to sleep during your waking hours.  

A variety of conditions can cause hypersomnolence, including narcolepsy, but “idiopathic” means there’s no identifiable cause of your symptoms.

While treatment for idiopathic hypersomnia typically involves stimulant medications and those that promote wakefulness, certain lifestyle strategies can complement your medication regimen. Just be sure to talk with your doctor before implementing these types of strategies to set goals and expectations.