Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is a disorder characterized by sudden and uncontrollable attacks of deep sleep during normal awake times. Paralysis and hallucinations may also occur at the onset of sleep. People with narcolepsy will suddenly fall asleep when they should be awake.

The number of these attacks can vary from a few to many in a single day. They may last minutes or hours. The desire to sleep cannot be resisted. A person with narcolepsy can fall immediately into a deep sleep. The person can be readily aroused from the attack as anyone can be from normal sleep.

Attacks are apt to occur during the times that often lead to normal sleep such as:

• after meals
• during monotonous tasks, such as driving a vehicle or
• while reading or watching TV

Sleep that suddenly occurs while driving, or smoking a cigarette, is obviously hazardous. The person may feel refreshed on awakening, yet falls asleep again in a few minutes. Momentary paralysis may be experienced with sudden emotional reactions, such as anger, fear, joy or surprise. Temporary weakness in limbs may produce an injury or a fall.

The cause of narcolepsy is unknown. Symptoms usually begin in adolescents or young adults and are life-long. People with narcolepsy should avoid situations in which a sudden sleep attack might be dangerous. This includes activities like driving, skiing, and operating machinery or power tools.

Not all excessive sleepiness is caused by narcolepsy. Your healthcare provider can evaluate the cause of excessive sleepiness. If narcolepsy is diagnosed, certain stimulant drugs and anti- depressants may reduce the symptoms.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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