Whether you've been diagnosed with Idiopathic Hypersomnia (IH), think you may have it, or even if you're taking treatment for it, it is important that you speak up and fully share what you're experiencing with your doctor.
Idiopathic Hypersomnia is much more than being sleepy—it's a range of symptoms that can affect you around the clock. So it's important that your doctor knows the struggles you may be going through in the morning, throughout the day and evening, and with your nighttime sleep.
Don't settle. It can be frustrating when you feel alone with your symptoms and that others don't understand you. Be sure to find a doctor who specializes in sleep medicine. This type of doctor is most familiar with treating the types of symptoms you're experiencing.
First, take the ih symptoms quiz
Take the interactive IH Symptoms Quiz. It will generate your personal list of talking points to help you discuss Idiopathic Hypersomnia with your doctor at your next appointment.
How is Idiopathic Hypersomnia diagnosed?
If Idiopathic Hypersomnia is suspected, your doctor may ask you to do a sleep study.
A sleep study is typically the first step in diagnosing Idiopathic Hypersomnia. It is done at a special clinic and can help rule out other sleep disorders and diagnose you with Idiopathic Hypersomnia. Note that home sleep tests—typically used to diagnose conditions like obstructive sleep apnea—do not adequately screen for Idiopathic Hypersomnia.
The sleep study usually consists of 2 parts:
Polysomnogram (PSG)
This is an overnight sleep test that looks at the amount and quality of your sleep. It also studies what your brain and body do while you sleep.You'll spend the night at the clinic so that both of these things can be observed.
Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT)
This is a daytime nap test. It evaluates your level of excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) by looking at how quickly you fall asleep. This test consists of five 20-minute nap tests spread throughout the day.
After you've gotten a diagnosis, take the next step and learn about how you can manage your Idiopathic Hypersomnia.
GET INFO ON MANAGING IHDon't give up—you don't have to do it alone. Your doctor can help.
"This is what sent me back to the doctor."
Beth talks about a serious incident that motivated her to seek a diagnosis, and ultimately, find out she has Idiopathic Hypersomnia.
Looking for a doctor with experience managing Idiopathic Hypersomnia?
Search for a sleep medicine specialist near you.