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Yawning - excessive
Definition:
To open the mouth involuntarily with a prolonged, deep inhalation of air, as from drowsiness or weariness.
Alternative Names:
Excessive yawning
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.

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


Home Care:
Follow prescribed treatment for dealing with the underlying cause.
Call your health care provider if:


What to expect at your health care provider's office:
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.
Review Date: 12/3/2001
Reviewed By: Steven Angelo, M.D. Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, Hospital of Saint Raphael, New Haven, CT. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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