Narcolepsy
On this page, you’ll find everything you’re looking for regarding narcolepsy.
What Is Narcolepsy?
It’s a rare, chronic neurological disorder that affects the brain’s ability to control sleep-wake cycles.
What Are the Symptoms of Narcolepsy?
- Symptoms may develop slowly over a number of years or, suddenly over a few weeks. They include:
- Excessive daytime sleepiness.
- Sleep attacks where you suddenly fall asleep without warning.
- Sudden, temporary muscle weakness or loss of muscle control.
- Sleep paralysis, a temporary inability to move or speak that occurs when waking up or falling asleep.
- Hallucinations and depression.
Memory problems and headaches.
What Are the Causes of Narcolepsy?
- Current research indicates that narcolepsy may result from a combination of factors, causing a deficiency in hypocretin, the chemical responsible for regulating wakefulness. These factors include:
- Autoimmune disorders.
- Family history.
Brain injuries.
How Is Narcolepsy Diagnosed?:
- The doctor will take the patient’s medical history and perform a clinical examination. Additional procedures may be ordered as needed, such as:
- Sleepiness scales through several questions to assess the likelihood of narcolepsy and sleep quality.
- Polysomnography (sleep study).
Measuring hypocretin levels.
How Is Narcolepsy Treated?
- Treatment involves several measures, or varies according to necessity, and may include:
- Medications.
- Lifestyle changes, including:
- Adhering to a bedtime routine.
- Taking warm baths before bed.
- Ensuring a good sleep environment.
- Avoiding caffeine, and exercise before sleep.
Refraining from large, heavy meals before going to bed.
How Can Narcolepsy be Prevented?
There is no way to prevent narcolepsy, but symptoms can be reduced through treatment and by monitoring and avoiding situations that commonly trigger the condition.
- What Are the Complications of Narcolepsy?
- Difficulties in carrying out daily life tasks.
- Social problems.
- Psychological issues.
- Injuries due to falls.
Accidents while driving.
When Should You Consult a Doctor?
Consult your doctor if you experience excessive daytime sleepiness, that disrupts your personal or professional life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is affected by narcolepsy?
Narcolepsy affects both males and females equally. Symptoms often begin during childhood, adolescence, or young adulthood, but they can occur at any life stage.
Can people with narcolepsy drive?
