Neurophysiologic Correlates of Hypersomnia: a High Density EEG Investigation
Neurophysiologic Correlates of Hypersomnia: a High Density EEG Investigation
The goal of this project is to examine the neurophysiology of hypersomnia during sleep and wakefulness, to identify biomarkers for excessive sleepiness in neuropsychiatric disorders, and pilot acoustical slow wave induction during sleep in patients with hypersomnolence, to determine if this decreases daytime sleepiness in these patients. The primary study hypotheses are that individuals with hypersomnolence will have reduced slow wave activity (SWA) during sleep and increased waking theta/alpha activity during wake in specific brain regions. A secondary hypothesis is that acoustical slow wave induction in hypersomnolent patients will increase SWA during sleep, reduce theta/alpha activity during wake, and improve subjective sleepiness.
Inclusion Criteria:
Exclusion Criteria:
Exclusionary criteria for all subjects will include: evidence of a clinically significant sleep disorder that would cause hypersomnolence (e.g. moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, shift-work sleep disorder), history of significant head trauma or loss of consciousness > 30 minutes; current smoking of more than 15 cigarettes per day; >3 caffeinated beverages per day; significant neurologic or medical illness; active drug/alcohol abuse/dependence (within 6 months of enrollment), women who are pregnant, <6 months post-partum, nursing or planning to become pregnant during the study; left-handedness (due to effects on sleep topography); and imminent risk for self-harm or suicide.