Narcolepsy is a chronic neurological sleep disorder caused by the brain's inability to regulate sleep-wake cycles normally; excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS).  In most cases, the first symptom of narcolepsy to appear is EDS.  A person may experiences extreme fatique and possibly falls asleep inappropriate times for instance while at work or waiting at the doctors office. 

Narcolepsy is thought to be a genetic disorder.  It is a lifelong condition, but narcoleptics who make certain lifestyle changes and seek medical help can reduce symptoms, improve alertness and enjoy a full and active life.

A narcoleptic will most probably experience disturbed sleep and also an abnormal daytime pattern, which is often confused with insomnia.  When a person with narcolepsy falls asleep or goes to bed they will generally experience the REM stage of sleep (rapid eye movement/ dreaming state), within 10 minutes; whereas for most people this shouldnt occur until generally 30 minutes of slumber. 

The symptoms of narcolepsy often become severe enough to cause serious problems in a person's social, personal, and professional lives and severely limit activities.  

Symptoms

The following symptoms can indicate the presence of Narcolepsy. If you notice one or more of these symptoms, give us a call at (818) 80-SLEEP and we can diagnose your sleep disorder

•Cataplexy: sudden loss of muscle power following a strong emotional stimulus.

•Sleep paralysis: sleep loss

•automatic behavior 

• hypnagogic/hypnopompic hallucinations.  

Treatment

The severity of this sleep disorder ranges from barely noticeable to disabling.  The patient would undergo an overnight sleep study in the lab followed by a next day Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT). The MSLT is a series of nap studies. Each nap lasts approximately 15-35 minutes, with approximately 1.5-2 hour breaks in between. Treatment for Narcolepsy always involves medication.  Any medical decisions should be made in follow-up visits with the physician.