excessive sleep problem

My husband cannot stay awake
by JAdamsCleary


JAdamsCleary
Female, 66 years
Harrisburg - OR
Member since Jan 2009  



, Jan 21, 2009 05:13PM
Tags: husband, sleeping, alcohol, cirrhosis, confusion
My husband has long bouts of sleeping (18-72 hours at a time) always preceded by a headache in forehead area. He says that the headache is not real painful but more like a pressure. He also has cirrhosis. He tested borderline at the sleep disorder clinic. He has had these bouts of oversleeping for the past 6 months. He also has severe confusion at times.



Optional Information:
Age: 66; Male, Oregon

Already Tried:
We have tried the sleep disorder center. Husband also has COPD, cirrhosis of the liver from alcohol abuse, a much enlarged spleen,(football sized). We cannot afford excessive Dr. visits due to no supplemental ins. to help cover medi-care.
Cannot remember if I mentioned sever confusion during and after sleep episodes.
He has had no alcohol for over 5 months. He takes lisinopril 10 mg. Combivent two puffs 4 times a day. Prilosec. Albuterol as needed. Wellbuterin 75 mg.

I'm back with more info.  My husband tested extremely high for ammonia level.(Idon't know the #'s)  He is being treated with Lactulose 30mgs three times a day & will see a gastro Dr. on the 5th.  PLEASE, what is the outlook for this.  I do know from research that the danger of coma is severe.  Is there a cure?  Thank you for your time.

[Steven Y Park, MD]

From what you've relayed, it sounds like your husband excessive sleep problems may be from his liver problems. He also has many other conditions that can lead to metabolic problems that can cause him to have headaches and excessive sleep duration. If his sleep doctors don't this his apnea (?) needs treatment, then I talk to your current doctors and focus on all his other medical problems. High ammonia levels can definitely cause his symptoms. Rarely, you can also have neurologic conditons that can cause these issues as well.