Narcolepsy: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Management
Learn about narcolepsy, a neurological disorder causing excessive daytime sleepiness, cataplexy, and disrupted nighttime sleep.
Key Points
- Narcolepsy causes overwhelming daytime sleepiness and sleep attacksType 1 includes cataplexy (sudden muscle weakness triggered by emotion)Caused by loss of orexin neurons that regulate wakefulnessDiagnosed with sleep study and MSLT (multiple sleep latency test)Treatment: stimulant medications and scheduled naps
Understanding Narcolepsy
Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder where the brain can't properly regulate sleep-wake cycles. Patients experience: excessive daytime sleepiness, sudden "sleep attacks," disrupted nighttime sleep, and (in type 1) cataplexy—sudden muscle weakness triggered by strong emotions like laughter.
Diagnosis & Treatment
Diagnosis: Overnight sleep study + MSLT (measures how quickly you fall asleep during daytime nap opportunities)
Treatment: Stimulant medications (modafinil, methylphenidate), sodium oxybate for nighttime sleep and cataplexy, scheduled strategic naps
Narcolepsy is lifelong but manageable with proper treatment.
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