Sleep Conditions > Narcolepsy > (Sleep Conditions Home or All Sleep Conditions)

Narcolepsy

Description

Narcolepsy is a disorder of unknown origin characterized by extreme and frequent sleepiness that can lead to a loss of muscle control and waking hallucinations. These sleeping attacks usually occur during situations that lend themselves to drowsiness, like traveling in a car or attending a movie in a dark theater. They can also happen during times not typically associated with sleep and can therefore cause severe problems in a person’s daily routine.

Diagnosis

This disorder is diagnosed in patients who nap frequently during the day, possibly at inappropriate times. Sufferers will also demonstrate a sudden loss of muscle control in association with intense emotion, or cataplexy. They will experience hallucinations and disruptions in thought due to chronic sleepiness. While patients may be diagnosed with other sleep disorders, for them to be considered narcoleptic, those disorders cannot be the primary cause of the symptoms.

Treatment

Though no cure for narcolepsy exists, sufferers can generally increase time spent sleeping through proper sleep hygiene. Narcoleptics can get some relief by avoiding alcohol and caffeine, getting daily exercise and maintaining a consistent bedtime and wake time. Patients may also find taking scheduled, daily naps will help fight extreme daytime sleepiness.

Source: Adapted from International Classification of Sleep Disorders Diagnostic & Coding Manual, American Academy of Sleep Medicine.