Autonomic nervous system dysfunction has been described in narcolepsy with cataplexy affecting the sympathetic function. In this study the investigators analyzed whether altered diurnal and nocturnal cardiovascular control is present in idiopathic hypersomnia. Drug-free patients diagnosed with idiopathic hypersomnia and age-matched controls were included. Clinical data, 24-h polysomnography, heart rate variability and the heart rate response to spontaneous arousal are analyzed.

Inclusion Criteria:

Idiopathic hypersomnia patients

• idiopathic hypersomnia diagnosis
• complaints of excessive daytime sleepiness for >1 year
• a night-time length >10 h for 3 weeks before polysomnography as assessed by a sleep diary

Inclusion Criteria:

no idiopathic hypersomnia patients

• no sleep complaints and excessive daytime sleepiness (Epworth sleep questionnaire score <10

Exclusion Criteria (both):

• Narcolepsy-cataplexy
• sleep irregularities and sleep deprivation symptoms
• lack of neurological or psychiatric diseases
• upper airway resistance syndrome
• periodic limbs movements
• cerebral lesion
• medication or drinks affecting sleep and wake state

Idiopathic hypersomnia patients and no idiopathic hypersomnia patient