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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Could Be The Cause Of Day Time Drowsiness In A Diabetic ?

A male, post left hemispheric stroke 2 years ago, at 66 years old, fell and sustained a mild brain bleed about 1-2 months ago, that was considered non-life threatening and required no treatment, however is now having issues of falling asleep daily during the day. Also has diabetes and awakens 3-4 times at night to urinate, thus disrupting his sleep cycle , that may be contributing to this daytime sleepiness. After the stroke, and until recently, the daytime sleep issue was not a problem. He also was diagnosed with a fungal infection in his ears in the past month and is being treated with meds. What say you?
posted on Wed, 28 Mar 2012
Twitter Wed, 28 Mar 2012 Answered on
Twitter Tue, 10 Apr 2012 Last reviewed on
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hello Judy


The patient seems to be having multiple problems as you have listed here.

In elderly people with multiple brain insults it is well known that minor disturbances in serum electrolytes, or any infection like a urinary or chest infection can lead to significant alteration in sensorium. Since he is Diabetic and having a fungal infection you need to get that treated plus look for any other source of infection like a urinary or chest infection and treat it effectively.

Also a Chronic Subdural Hemorrhage associated with the previous fall may be ruled out although it might be less likely.

Usually people post stroke with these symptoms respond well when the ongoing infection or alteration in electrolytes are taken care of. Hope this helps.



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What Could Be The Cause Of Day Time Drowsiness In A Diabetic ?

Hello Judy The patient seems to be having multiple problems as you have listed here. In elderly people with multiple brain insults it is well known that minor disturbances in serum electrolytes, or any infection like a urinary or chest infection can lead to significant alteration in sensorium. Since he is Diabetic and having a fungal infection you need to get that treated plus look for any other source of infection like a urinary or chest infection and treat it effectively. Also a Chronic Subdural Hemorrhage associated with the previous fall may be ruled out although it might be less likely. Usually people post stroke with these symptoms respond well when the ongoing infection or alteration in electrolytes are taken care of. Hope this helps.