It’s not exactly a fairy tale.
With all the stress, smartphones, and not-so-great nighttime habits, many struggle to get the recommended 6-9 hours of sleep each night. Yet, on rare occasions, some people might sleep for almost an entire day.
What is Sleeping Beauty Syndrome?
Kleine-Levin syndrome (KLS), often referred to as “Sleeping Beauty Syndrome,” is a rare neurological disorder that causes individuals to sleep unusually long periods, anywhere from 16 to 20 hours a day.
Some studies indicate that KLS affects about 1 to 5 individuals per million, with a higher prevalence among Ashkenazi Jews. So far, around 500 cases have been documented in medical literature.
Interestingly, while around 70% of those affected are male, KLS can impact both genders, usually presenting symptoms early in adolescence and lasting, on average, about 14 years.
KLS falls under a category that includes narcolepsy. Episodes can come and go, and many patients experience the disorder for a decade or two.
Symptoms of KLS or Sleeping Beauty Syndrome
An episode of KLS is characterized as lasting at least 2 days, typically averaging about 10 days, but it can extend to weeks. In one documented case, a patient slept for 70 consecutive days.
Those with KLS may experience intense hunger during episodes, hallucinations, or inconsistencies in their wakefulness.
Many diagnosed individuals see an average of 20 episodes in their lifetime.
Symptoms of KLS generally include:
- Extreme drowsiness and difficulty waking
- Heightened appetite
- Weight gain
- Increased sexual desire
- Hallucinations
- Behavioral changes such as irritability and confusion
- Anxiety or depression
- Memory issues
Because episodes can occur suddenly, there’s a risk of injury when driving or operating machinery. So, it’s advised to stay in a safe environment during these times.
What causes KLS?
The exact cause remains unknown, though some researchers suggest it could stem from a disease or injury to the hypothalamus, a brain area crucial for sleep regulation.
There’s also a theory that KLS may occur after an infectious disease as an autoimmune response, where the body confuses brain tissue for something harmful.
Potential triggers for KLS include:
- Infections
- Substance use
- Head injuries
- Physical exercise
- Stress
During episodes, patients often have limited memory recall. While they might eat and use the bathroom, severe fatigue hampers their overall physical capabilities.
“When you’re in an episode, you lose everything related to friends, family, and school,” shared one patient.
Afterward, individuals typically return to their normal routines.
KLS treatment
Treatment for KLS may involve medications, including lithium, IV steroids, and stimulants, designed to lessen the frequency, duration, and intensity of episodes.
Additionally, other approaches may aid in managing symptoms like heightened sexual desire, anxiety, and depression.
