TeenHealthFX - Answers - Hypersomnia and Kleine Levin Syndrome

Sleep Issues And Fatigue / Question
Published: June 16, 2005

Dear TeenHealthFX,

I have two sleeping disorders. I am 19 and can only stay awake for about 5 hours a day. The doctor says I have hypersomnia and Kleine Levin syndrome. What are they and how do I get rid of them?

Signed: Hypersomnia and Kleine Levin Syndrome

Dear Hypersomnia and Kleine Levin Syndrome,

TeenHealthFX is glad that you wrote. By asking questions and educating yourself regarding your condition, you are taking an important step in understanding how to manage the situation and hopefully live a healthier, fuller life. Below are descriptions of both disorders that we hope are helpful to you. In both cases your doctor must determine treatment.

Hypersomnia is a condition in which one sleeps for an excessively long time but is normal during waking hours. Chronic hypersomnia typically occurs in conjunction central nervous damage or may be secondary to some physical and mental illnesses, particularly depression.

Kleine-Levin Syndrome (KLS) is a rare disorder also characterized by the need for excessive amounts of sleep. The patient becomes progressively drowsier and sleeps for most of the day and night, and in some cases requires excessive food intake. The disorder primarily strikes adolescents. When awake, affected individuals may exhibit irritability, lack of energy, lack of emotions, and they may appear to be confused. Many patients report a hypersensitivity to noise. Some patients show an abnormally uninhibited sexual drive.

Symptoms of Kleine-Levin are cyclical. An affected individual may go for weeks or months without experiencing any symptoms, with perfect health and no evidence of behavioral or physical dysfunction. When present, KLS symptoms may persist for days to weeks or even months. The exact cause of KLS is not yet known. It is thought that symptoms of KLS may be related to malfunction of the portions of the brain that help to regulate functions such as sleep, appetite and body temperature. It appears to be self-limiting with episodes ending by early adulthood.

For more information on KLS, you may want to visit the Kleine-Levin Syndrome Foundation website

Signed: TeenHealthFX