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

drowsiness or weariness
acute MI (vasovagal reaction)
aortic dissection (vasovagal reaction)
disorders associated with excessive daytime sleepiness

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

Call your health care provider if

there is any unexplained and excessive yawning.
the yawning is associated with excessive daytime sleepiness.

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.