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Narcolepsy causes excessive sleepiness, hallucinations, sleep paralysis, and vivid nightmares. It affects men and women equally, with symptoms typically beginning in early childhood or adolescence. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, about 200,000 people in the U.S. have narcolepsy. In understanding narcolepsy you can find a way to continue doing what you love and live a full, healthy, happy life.
Narcolepsy is a condition that causes excessive sleepiness, sleep paralysis, and hallucinations
Narcolepsy is a condition that causes excessive sleepiness, sleep paralysis, and hallucinations. Certain actions such as laughing too hard can cause cataplexy, a partial loss of muscle control. Those with narcolepsy can fall asleep at any time which has a huge impact on quality of life.
The Mayo Clinic defines narcolepsy as a chronic sleep disorder. Narcolepsy symptoms cause intense daytime sleepiness and sudden bouts of sleep. People who suffer narcolepsy find it difficult to stay awake for long periods of time. Narcolepsy has no cure but can be managed with lifestyle changes and medications.
Narcolepsy is caused by low levels of hypocretin, a chemical that promotes wakefulness and regulates REM sleep.
Cataplexy is the sudden loss of muscle control, in the face, arms, torso, or legs. Those with narcolepsy can experience an episode of slurred speech, sagging jaw, and slump down in their seat for up to two minutes. These episodes are usually triggered by a strong emotion such as laughter.
The typical narcolepsy symptoms of excessive sleepiness, sleep paralysis, and hallucinations can be experienced without cataplexy and is considered to be less severe than narcolepsy with cataplexy.
Narcolepsy is caused by low levels of hypocretin, a chemical that promotes wakefulness and regulates REM sleep. Coupled with this, there are secondary medical conditions that may cause narcolepsy such as, autoimmune disorders, brain injuries, or it is inherited.
A narcolepsy test in the form of a clinical examination and full medical history is typically enough to diagnose narcolepsy. Patients are asked to keep a sleep journal for up to two weeks, documenting their sleep times and experiences. Narcolepsy has one defining symptom that is not seen in any other medical conditions. Cataplexy, a sudden loss of muscle tone in the face, arms, legs, or torso.
Narcolepsy test include:
Anyone who suspects they may have narcolepsy should see their doctor immediately. A doctor may suggest one or more of the following treatment options.
Treatment for Narcolepsy: Medications
Treatment for Narcolepsy: Lifestyle Changes
Narcolepsy symptoms may seem scary but they can be managed. It is possible to have narcolepsy and live a full and happy life.
Signs of narcolepsy are excessive daytime sleepiness, falling asleep at inappropriate times, sleep paralysis, hallucinations, and possible loss of muscle tone in face, jaw, arms, and torso for up to 2 minutes at a time. Narcoleptic conditions can be scary at first but with lifestyle changes and medication, you can regain control of your life. Telling family, friends, and colleagues about your condition and joining a support group can be a great support.