IH usually starts in younger people, aged less than 30. It
tends to come on gradually, over months or years. People
have difficulty with being able to work normally because
of excessive sleepiness. Others may mistake this for lack
of interest or motivation. Close friends and family need to
understand how hard it is for sufferers to fight feeling
sleepy. It may also cause depressed feelings. It is not safe
to drive a car unless the symptoms are under control with
medication.
Where and when should sufferers seek
help?
If you are always feeling sleepy and cannot explain why,
you should talk to your doctor (see excessive daytime
sleepiness). You probably don’t have IH if you feel tired or
fatigued without the urge to sleep during the day. If you
wake up refreshed after having a long sleep, then you
probably don’t have IH.