About Sleep Disorders

Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy can be defined as episodes of excessive drowsiness during the day with a tendency to sleep at inappropriate times. The sleep episodes of narcolepsy are sometimes brought on by highly stressful situations and are not completely relieved by an amount of sleep.

Although narcolepsy is a fairly uncommon condition, its impact on a person’s life can be serious and if not recognized and appropriately managed, disabling. A cure for narcolepsy has not yet been found, but most people with this disorder can lead nearly normal lives if the condition is properly treated.

What are the symptoms of Narcolepsy?

The four most common symptoms of narcolepsy are excessive daytime sleepiness, cataplexy, sleep paralysis and hypnagogic hallucinations that occur just before falling asleep.

Excessive Daytime Sleepiness is usually the first symptom of narcolepsy. People with narcolepsy tend to fall asleep not only in situations that many people feel sleepy (after meals or during a lecture), but also when most people would remain awake (while watching a movie, writing a letter or driving).

Cataplexy Attacks are sudden, brief losses of muscle control. These attacks are sometimes the first symptom of narcolepsy, but more often develop months or years after the onset of sleepiness. Cataplexy is usually triggered by strong emotion, such as laughter, anger or surprise.

Sleep Paralysis is a brief loss of muscle control that occurs when a person is falling asleep or waking up. The person may be somewhat aware of the surroundings, but is unable to move or speak.

Hypnagogic Hallucinations are vivid, dreamlike experiences that occur when a person is drowsy. The hallucinations may involve disturbing images or sounds. These can be frightening because the person is partly awake but has no control over the events.

Find out about Narcolepsy Treatments offered at Hoag Sleep Disorders Center.

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