Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Jul 12: While a short afternoon nap can help improve alertness and productivity, doctors caution that frequent or prolonged daytime sleepiness may be a sign of an underlying health condition that requires medical attention.
According to Dr Mrinal Sircar, Director of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine at Medanta, Noida, a power nap lasting 10 to 30 minutes is generally considered healthy, particularly after a poor night's sleep or during periods of intense mental activity. Such naps usually do not interfere with nighttime sleep.
However, he warned that the need for long naps every day or persistent tiredness despite getting adequate sleep should not be ignored.
"Frequent, prolonged and untimely naps, especially among older adults, may be associated with poorer health and an increased risk of mortality. Excessive daytime sleepiness is often a symptom of an underlying medical condition rather than a condition by itself," Dr Sircar said.
Experts say several medical conditions can contribute to excessive daytime fatigue.
One of the most common is obstructive sleep apnoea, in which repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep prevent the body from getting adequate rest, leading to persistent daytime drowsiness.
Insomnia, which causes difficulty in falling asleep or staying asleep, can also leave people feeling tired throughout the day and increase the need for naps.
Another possible cause is restless leg syndrome, a neurological disorder marked by uncomfortable sensations in the legs and an uncontrollable urge to move them, particularly at night, resulting in disturbed sleep.
Doctors also note that conditions such as hypothyroidism, diabetes, heart disease, chronic infections, neurological disorders, depression and chronic stress can contribute to excessive daytime sleepiness.
Health experts advise that an occasional short nap is normal and often beneficial. However, if frequent or prolonged naps begin affecting daily activities or are accompanied by persistent fatigue despite sufficient sleep, individuals should consult a sleep medicine specialist for proper evaluation and treatment.
Early diagnosis of the underlying cause can significantly improve sleep quality and overall health, experts added.