Hypersomnia is extremely rare in children. Only one percent of the population has idiopathic hypersomnia and most of them are adolescents and adults..
How can I tell if my child has hypersomnia?
Kids with hypersomnia will often sleep more than 10 hours at night and nap another 4 to 8 hours during the day (if possible). They may also be extremely difficult to wake. Your child may nap in inconvenient or unacceptable places (such as school).
Other symptoms of hypersomnia may include anxiety, irritation, loss of appetite and slow thinking or speech.
If your child has had symptoms for more than three uninterrupted months without an identifiable cause, see a doctor.
What is the prognosis for children with hypersomnia?
Because medications can have potentially life-threatening side effects, it is important for parents to monitor their child’s sleeping habits.
Kids who have regular sleeping schedules, avoid caffeine before bedtime and sleep in a comfortable environment have better outcomes than those kids who don’t.