Daytime fatigue is actually quite common in early Alzheimer's, and there are several reasons it can come on suddenly. Here's a quick overview of the main causes:
- Brain changes – Alzheimer's can damage the brain cells responsible for staying awake, making someone feel sleepy even after a full night's rest
- Disrupted body Show Full Answer
Daytime fatigue is actually quite common in early Alzheimer's, and there are several reasons it can come on suddenly. Here's a quick overview of the main causes:
- Brain changes – Alzheimer's can damage the brain cells responsible for staying awake, making someone feel sleepy even after a full night's rest.
- Disrupted body clock – Alzheimer's can affect the brain's natural sleep-wake cycle, causing unusual tiredness throughout the day.
- Sundowning – Restlessness or agitation in the late afternoon or evening can disturb nighttime sleep, leading to more daytime sleepiness.
- Medications – Some medications commonly used in Alzheimer's care can cause fatigue and low energy as a side effect.
- Poor nutrition – Fatigue can reduce appetite, and not eating enough can make tiredness worse.
- Age-related brain changes – Natural aging can also contribute to increased daytime drowsiness. If the fatigue feels sudden rather than gradual, it's worth reviewing any current medications with a doctor or pharmacist, as that's a common and often overlooked cause. A healthcare provider can help figure out what's driving the tiredness and suggest ways to manage it.
August 30
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