Why am I always so tired even though I sleep a lot?

Discussion
1

I sleep a lot, like a LOT. When I’m not at school, I’m basically sleeping. I’ve already been to the doctor, and I’m not sick—just a slight cold because it’s fall, but nothing serious. No conditions like anemia either. My sleep schedule looks normal: I fall asleep around 9:45 pm, wake up at 6:30 am, and then take a nap as soon as I get home around 3:00 pm, often sleeping until 7:00 or 8:00 pm. I’m always tired, and I just don’t understand why! I’m young, so does anyone know what’s going on?

2

Weird as it sounds, oversleeping can sometimes make you feel even more tired.

3

It took me seeing three different doctors to figure out I was iron deficient. My test results looked normal, but deeper investigation revealed the issue. I started taking iron supplements, and now I feel much better. Don’t settle for one doctor’s opinion. Get a second opinion and push for a thorough investigation—it’s not normal to feel this way, and it needs attention.

4

@Paxton
I get frequent blood tests because of other medical issues, and they always check my iron levels. Every single time, they say my levels are perfectly fine.

5

Noel said:
@Paxton
I get frequent blood tests because of other medical issues, and they always check my iron levels. Every single time, they say my levels are perfectly fine.

What kind of medical issues? Do they affect your sleep?

6

@Paxton
I have P.O.T.S and used to struggle with insomnia, but now it’s the opposite. Mentally, I have depression, anxiety, and ADHD.

7

You might still be sick—it’s just that your doctor hasn’t found the cause yet. Besides anemia, there are plenty of conditions that could explain this. Have you seen specialists or just your general doctor? This really needs someone who can see you in person and dig into all possible causes.

8

@Penn
My doctor suspects I have P.O.T.S, but they said it shouldn’t cause constant tiredness. It’s usually on-and-off for P.O.T.S patients.

9

Noel said:
@Penn
My doctor suspects I have P.O.T.S, but they said it shouldn’t cause constant tiredness. It’s usually on-and-off for P.O.T.S patients.

I’m not a doctor, but I’d suggest demanding more evaluations. Endocrine, neurological, and psychiatric causes all need to be ruled out for someone experiencing hypersomnia.

10

@Penn
Got it! I’ll make sure to push for further checks. Thanks so much for your advice!