Archive · 13 Aug 2026
Sleep Experts Say Struggling to Stay Awake Requires Doctor Visit
Being sleepy after a long day is normal.
But doctors say that if you keep falling asleep while watching a movie, reading, or talking to someone, you should tell a doctor.
Sleep experts explain that this kind of sleepiness can be a warning sign.
Sometimes people sleep seven to nine hours and still feel tired during the day.
That can mean their brain is not getting good, restful sleep.
Sleep problems like sleep apnea, where breathing stops for a moment during sleep, can cause this.
Other things like thyroid problems, certain medicines, or too much screen time before bed can also make you sleepy.
If you feel sleepy during the day for more than a few weeks, doctors say to ask for help.
Getting help protects your memory, mood, and safety.
Sleep expert Dr Chris Winter says struggling to stay awake during normal evening activities is a 'do not pass go' sign to visit a primary care doctor.
Dr Yogesh Godge warns that regularly dozing off during films, meetings, reading, or conversations is a red flag.
Sleeping seven to nine hours yet still feeling sleepy most days may mean the brain is not getting restorative sleep.
Persistent daytime drowsiness can signal conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea, narcolepsy, thyroid problems, or medication side effects.
Doctors advise seeking medical help if daytime sleepiness lasts more than a few weeks despite good sleep habits.
- Who
- Sleep experts Dr Chris Winter and Dr Yogesh Godge, Consultant Neurologist at Jupiter Hospital, Thane
- What
- Experts warn that persistent daytime sleepiness is a medical warning sign, not simple fatigue, and advise seeing a doctor or sleep specialist
- When
- Seek medical advice when daytime sleepiness persists for more than a few weeks despite following good sleep habits
- Where
- Advice shared on The Tamsen Show Podcast and by Jupiter Hospital, Thane
- Why
- Because persistent drowsiness may signal underlying sleep disorders, neurological conditions, or other medical issues
- Experts
- Dr Chris Winter (sleep expert); Dr Yogesh Godge (Consultant Neurologist, Jupiter Hospital, Thane)
- Key warning sign
- Struggling to stay awake during normal evening activities like watching a movie
- Recommended sleep
- 7-9 hours per night
- Red flags
- Loud snoring, choking or gasping in sleep, frequent awakenings, morning headaches, difficulty staying asleep, waking unrefreshed, sudden sleep attacks, drowsiness while driving
- Possible causes
- Obstructive sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, narcolepsy, neurological disorders, thyroid problems, depression, uncontrolled diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, medication side effects
- Lifestyle factors
- Irregular sleep schedule, alcohol, excessive screen time before bed
- Risks if untreated
- Impaired memory, concentration, mood and work performance; increased risk of road traffic accidents
- When to seek help
- If daytime sleepiness persists for more than a few weeks despite good sleep habits