Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is a chronic neurological disorder that is caused by the brain not being able to regulate sleep and wake cycles properly. Narcolepsy is classified by excessive daytime sleepiness, and can cause the person to nod off at any given time staying asleep for a few seconds to several minutes. The cause remains unknown and can have adverse affects on all parts of life. Many people with narcolepsy endure many years of daytime sleepiness without seeking treatment because being sleepy is not usually and indication of a disease. There is ongoing research to determine if an abnormal gene may be responsible for narcolepsy or if the body's immune system might be involved.

Fast Facts:

Effects more than 1 in 2,000 Americans
Effects both sexes equally
First symptoms usually develop in young adults
Can produce hallucinations
Unknown if it is hereditary
Symptoms may vary during life span
Second leading cause of daytime sleepiness
Do not sleep more than the average person
Chronic condition that doesn't go away completely
People with narcolepsy often experience a temporary inability to move or speak
Usually begins in teenagers or young adults and affects both sexes equally
Often remains undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for years
There is currently no treatment
Medications and lifestyle changes can help manage the symptoms
Sometimes mistaken for depression, seizure disorder, fainting
Believed to be caused by hypocretin production in the brain

Disclaimer: The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you think you have Narcolepsy, please consult your doctor