Narcolepsy
Description
A chronic neurological condition characterized by overwhelming daytime sleepiness and sudden attacks of sleep. People with narcolepsy often find it difficult to stay awake for long periods of time, regardless of the circumstances.
Common Symptoms
- Excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS)
- Cataplexy (sudden loss of muscle tone triggered by strong emotion)
- Sleep paralysis
- Hallucinations (hypnagogic/hypnopompic)
- Fragmented nighttime sleep
Common Causes
- The cause of most cases is the loss of brain cells that produce hypocretin (orexin), a chemical that regulates wakefulness. This is thought to be an autoimmune process.
Treatment Information
There is no cure. Lifestyle modifications and medications can help manage the symptoms. Stimulants are used for sleepiness, and antidepressants or sodium oxybate are used for cataplexy.
Important: This information is for educational purposes only.
Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.