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Warning-sign checks

Idiopathic hypersomnia: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services for a suspected medication overdose, severe difficulty breathing, inability to wake, a seizure, or signs of a serious allergic reaction.

    Sudden one-sided weakness, facial drooping, or trouble speaking also needs emergency care and should not be attributed to sleepiness.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek prompt medical advice if sleepiness begins suddenly, worsens quickly, or starts after a new medicine or substance.

    New cataplexy-like weakness, repeated collapse, major changes in behaviour, or new neurological symptoms need reassessment because they are not typical features of idiopathic hypersomnia.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine medical appointment if daytime sleepiness has lasted several weeks, repeatedly interferes with daily life, or continues despite enough sleep.

    Assessment is also appropriate if you regularly sleep through alarms, take long unrefreshing naps, or fall asleep unintentionally.

The article also says

Treat inability to stay awake while driving or doing hazardous work as an immediate safety problem.

Stop the activity and move to a safe place.

Do not try to overcome severe sleepiness with an open window, loud music, or caffeine alone.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Idiopathic hypersomnia. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.