Narcolepsy
Overview
Narcolepsy is a disorder of the central nervous system that occurs when abnormal brain chemistry interrupts the natural wake/sleep cycle. The sleeping disorder is characterized by a sudden, overwhelming urge to sleep during waking hours, regardless of the circumstance.
Risk Factors
Men and women of any age can be diagnosed with narcolepsy. The sleeping disorder occurs in about one out of every 2,000 Americans. While the exact cause of narcolepsy is unknown, there may be contributing factors.
- Genetics
- High stress level
- Poor diet
- Hormonal changes
- Exposure to toxins
- Infection
- Traumatic brain injury
- Low levels of Hypocretin
Symptoms
The first symptoms of narcolepsy usually present themselves in young adults between the ages of 15 and 30. However, the disorder often goes undiagnosed because the symptoms can be subtle and inconsistent.
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Uncontrollable need to sleep several times a day
- Hallucinations while falling asleep or waking
- Abrupt loss of muscle tone (cataplexy) triggered by strong emotions
- Temporary loss of muscle tone (Sleep paralysis)
Diagnostic Tests
If your healthcare provider suspects sleep apnea, specialists at our sleep center will give you diagnostic tests to determine the best course of treatment.
- Physical exam
- Detailed sleep history
- Record of sleep patterns
- Multiple sleep latency test
- Overnight test monitoring & recording
- Hypocretin test
Treatment
While there is no known cure for narcolepsy, our Sleep Center offers techniques targeted to help alleviate the symptoms from disrupting your personal & professional life. Each treatment plan is customized to the individual.
- Medications
- Lifestyle adjustments
- Napping
