I seem to have different issues than insomnia that most people have. I go to bed early about 8 or 9 pm and wake up at 4:30 am to get ready for work. Most days I feel in a fog, not all. I sweat at night and get hot getting ready for work. Past menopause several years ago, I am 62 years old. I have a very mild case of sleep apnea and no matter if I use my cpap or not, still have the same issues. I am always ready to take a nap around 11 or noon. Can’t because of work. On weekends if I do nap, I wake up about 4 hours later, not a short nap (they don’t exist for me) after the nap I am even more tired. I wonder if this is some type of hormone issue? Thus started about 6 months ago. It is so bad that I make no plans on week nights afraid I will be late going to sleep and hardly do much during the weekend where I am afraid I will not be able to take a nap if needed. I eat very well, my VitD, and vitB’s are fine, my cortisol after about 3 hours of waking is 8, and they say it drops during the day, how lie can it go? Waiting on an appt with an endocrinologist that they say takes about 3 months ti even get a call.
Anyone else have these issues? By the way when I do get sleepy during the day, it is not narcolepsy because I call pretty much control it but it is very hard.
hey @Yvebrit18 Your symptoms persistent fatigue night sweats excessive daytime sleepiness and prolonged naps could point to a hormonal issue possibly adrenal insufficiency or thyroid dysfunction despite normal cortisol and vitamin levels. Post-menopausal changes or suboptimal CPAP use for mild sleep apnea might also contribute. Based on my experience, similar complaints often tie to cortisol rhythm disruptions or low thyroid function, which can worsen fatigue and heat intolerance. While waiting for your endocrinologist try strict sleep hygiene, light morning exercise, and stress reduction. Many share these struggles on X, especially post-menopause. Search there for coping strategies or support groups.
I do try meditation for stress relief but I am still learning. I have picked up an exercise regiment but just hard to do it all the time. I am trying and just hope to get into the endocrinologist soon.
I will just keep doing what I am doing to get by. The way it is looking I will not get an appt until next year. I know once I get in a diagnosis will not happen overnight either.
It sounds like you’re really doing your best to take care of yourself, and I can imagine how frustrating it must be to still feel so fatigued despite doing everything “right.” You’re definitely not alone — many people experience this type of daytime fog and exhaustion, especially after menopause when hormone levels can fluctuate and affect sleep quality, temperature regulation, and energy throughout the day.
Even though your sleep apnea is mild, it could still be contributing to unrefreshing sleep — sometimes small changes in mask fit, pressure settings, or humidity can make a big difference. Since you’re also having night sweats and temperature swings, checking in with an endocrinologist is a great step. They can help rule out thyroid or cortisol rhythm issues, which can sometimes cause that drained, “can’t wake up” feeling even after a full night’s rest.
In the meantime, you might try:
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Tracking your sleep and symptoms (a short log noting bedtime, awakenings, night sweats, and energy levels). It can help the endocrinologist spot patterns.
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Light exposure in the morning (bright light, even a short walk) — this can help regulate your body clock and cortisol rhythm.
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Gentle movement during the day, if possible, can reduce the midday “crash.”
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Checking your CPAP data if your machine tracks usage and leak rate — sometimes subtle leaks can cause sleep disruptions.
You’re absolutely right to advocate for yourself and seek more answers. Hopefully the endocrinology appointment gives you more clarity — but you’re already on the right track by being so thorough and aware of your body’s changes. Wishing you all the best 
I have the same symptoms. I sleep 7-8 hours a night and wake up feeling like I was out drinking all night. Excessive fatigue, brain fog, moody, hard to concentrate, unrefreshed sleep.