Piedmont Athens Regional recognizes idiopathic hypersomnia awareness day

Athens, Ga. (June 9, 2026) - In recognition of Idiopathic Hypersomnia Awareness Day on June 13, Piedmont Athens Regional is raising awareness about chronic sleep disorders and encouraging individuals experiencing excessive daytime sleepiness to speak with their primary care physician about possible causes and treatments.

Idiopathic hypersomnia is a rare neurological sleep disorder that causes people to feel persistently tired during the day, even after a full night’s sleep. Individuals with the condition often have a hard time waking up, may sleep for long periods of time, and typically do not feel refreshed after sleep or naps.

“Many people think that feeling tired during the day is normal, but persistent sleepiness can be a sign of an underlying sleep disorder,” said Joe Granato, manager of sleep medicine and neurophysiology services at Piedmont Athens Regional. “Conditions like idiopathic hypersomnia are often underdiagnosed, but effective evaluation and treatment options are available.”

Symptoms may include an overwhelming need to sleep, trouble staying alert, “brain fog,” and difficulty with memory or concentration. In some cases, the condition can interfere with daily activities and pose safety risks.

Untreated sleep disorders can contribute to serious health risks, including high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, as well as increased risk of accidents due to fatigue. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to improving sleep and overall well-being.

Diagnosing idiopathic hypersomnia often involves ruling out more common conditions such as sleep apnea or narcolepsy. Physicians may recommend a sleep study to monitor brain activity, breathing, and heart rate, helping them give an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

Piedmont Athens Regional offers comprehensive sleep medicine services to evaluate and treat a wide range of sleep disorders, including hypersomnia, sleep apnea, insomnia and other conditions that can significantly impact overall health and quality of life.

“Getting answers about your sleep health can make a significant difference in your quality of life,” Granato said. “Sleep studies help providers better understand what’s happening while someone’s asleep and develop an individualized treatment plan.”

Individuals experiencing ongoing fatigue or poor sleep should start by speaking with their primary care provider, who can determine if a sleep study is appropriate.