Yawning, excessive

Considerations:
Yawning is a normal response to fatigue and drowsiness , but excessive yawning can be caused by a vasovagal reaction and may indicate a heart problem.

Most insomniacs are too anxious to be sleepy in spite of their short nightly sleep time.

Normal yawning may be induced when the brain or lungs are not getting enough oxygen (or when someone else yawns).

Common Causes:

Note: There may be other causes of excessive yawning. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for excessive yawning, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.

Home Care:
Follow prescribed treatment for dealing with the underlying cause.

Call Your Healthcare Provider If:



What to Expect:
The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.

Medical history questions documenting excessive yawning in detail may include:

  • time pattern
    • When did the excessive yawning begin?
    • How many yawns per hour or day?
    • Is the yawning consistent throughout the day?
    • Is it worse in the morning, after lunch, or during exercise ?
    • Is it worse in certain areas or certain rooms?

  • quality
    • Does yawning interfere with normal activities?

  • aggravating factors
    • Is the increased yawning related to amount of sleep received?
    • Is it related to use of medications?
    • Is it related to activity level?
    • Is it related to boredom?

  • relieving factors
    • What helps it?
    • Does rest help?
    • Does breathing deeply help?

  • other
    • What other symptoms are also present?
    • What medications are being taken?

Diagnostic tests that may be performed may include sleep studies .

After seeing your health care provider:
If a diagnosis was made by your health care provider related to excessive yawning, you may want to note that diagnosis in your personal medical record.