Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is a chronic neurological disorder that disrupts your ability to regulate sleep-wake cycles, leading to excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden sleep episodes. Managing narcolepsy can be challenging, but gaining a thorough understanding of the condition can help you take control of your symptoms and enhance your daily living.

Advocate Sleep Centers offer comprehensive care and expert guidance on narcolepsy. Our sleep specialists are equipped with the latest testing and treatment options for narcolepsy.

Contact us to schedule a consultation near you.

What is narcolepsy?

Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder that affects your ability to control sleep-wake cycles. People with narcolepsy experience excessive daytime sleepiness and may fall asleep suddenly, even in the middle of activities.

Narcolepsy is categorized into two main types:

• Type 1 narcolepsy: Characterized by the presence of cataplexy, which involves sudden muscle weakness triggered by strong emotions.
• Type 2 narcolepsy: This type does not involve cataplexy. Symptoms include excessive daytime sleepiness without the sudden loss of muscle tone.

What causes narcolepsy?

The exact cause of narcolepsy is not fully understood, but it is believed to be a result of a combination of genetic and environmental factors. It often occurs due to the loss of hypocretin-producing neurons in the brain, which are essential for regulating waking up and REM sleep. Some potential causes include:

• Genetics: Certain genetic factors may increase your risk of developing narcolepsy.
• Immune system dysfunction: An autoimmune response might target and destroy hypocretin-producing neurons.
• Brain injuries: Trauma or tumors affecting the regions of the brain that control sleep can lead to narcolepsy.

What aggravates narcolepsy?

Various factors can worsen narcolepsy symptoms, such as:

• Stress: High levels of stress can disrupt your sleep patterns and trigger excessive daytime sleepiness.
• Irregular sleep schedules: Inconsistent sleep patterns can make managing narcolepsy more challenging.
• Bad habits: Factors like consuming caffeine and lack of exercise can exacerbate symptoms.

Symptoms of narcolepsy

Narcolepsy symptoms can vary in severity and may include:

• Excessive daytime sleepiness: Persistent drowsiness during the day, often leading to involuntary naps.
• Cataplexy: Sudden muscle weakness triggered by strong emotions.
• Sleep paralysis: Temporary inability to move or speak while falling asleep or waking up.
• Hallucinations: Vivid and often frightening dreams that occur while falling asleep or waking up.
• Fragmented sleep: Frequent awakenings during the night, disrupting your sleep.

Diagnosing narcolepsy

To diagnose narcolepsy, a comprehensive sleep study known as a polysomnogram is typically performed, followed by a multiple sleep latency test. These sleep tests monitor your sleep patterns, brain activity, and muscle movements to assess the severity of your condition. A thorough medical history and physical examination are also essential for an accurate diagnosis.

Medicine and treatment for narcolepsy

While there is no cure for narcolepsy, various treatments can help manage the symptoms. Treatment options include:

• Medication: Stimulants, antidepressants and sodium oxybate (Xyrem) are often prescribed to reduce excessive daytime sleepiness and cataplexy.
• Lifestyle changes: Maintaining a regular sleep schedule, taking short naps during the day, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol can improve your sleep quality.
• Therapies: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other therapies can help manage the emotional and psychological effects of narcolepsy.

How do you stop an episode of narcolepsy?

If you feel a narcolepsy episode coming on, it's important to take immediate action to ensure your safety. Find a safe place to rest or lie down if possible.

Practicing relaxation techniques and staying calm can also help. Long-term management strategies include following a consistent sleep schedule, taking prescribed medications and making lifestyle changes to minimize triggers.