Narcolepsy
Narcolepsy
Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder that causes sudden, uncontrollable daytime sleepiness.
People who have narcolepsy often experience extreme sleepiness during the day and have muscular weakness when they feel angry, surprised, or amused. They may have terrifying dreams or hallucinations as they fall asleep. People may involuntarily fall asleep during the day while at work, school, during an activity, or even while driving. While it is usually brief—sometimes only a few seconds—it can be very dangerous and can lead to additional medical issues.
Common Symptoms of Narcolepsy
In addition to daytime sleepiness, people with narcolepsy may also have disrupted, unrestful sleep throughout the night. Narcolepsy often emerges in young adulthood and is a life-long medical sleep disorder. Narcolepsy is often misdiagnosed. A sleep study which includes a polysomnogram and multiple sleep latency test is essential to diagnosing narcolepsy. We’ll work with you and your primary care provider to develop a treatment plan and medication that helps you cope with your disorder so you are able to lead a normal lifestyle.
Extreme daytime sleepiness
Automatic behaviors
Sudden loss of muscle tone
Sleep paralysis
Hallucinations
Changes in REM sleep
Other Sleep Disorders
Sleep Apnea
& Snoring
Insomnia
Shift Work
Disorder
Restless Leg
Syndrome
Concerned About Narcolepsy?
If you experience sudden daytime sleepiness or trouble staying awake, you may have narcolepsy—a chronic but manageable sleep disorder. With proper diagnosis and treatment, many people find relief and are able to lead more balanced, alert lives.