By Minh Tran

Narcolepsy

What is Narcolepsy?

Narcolepsy is a neurologic disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and abnormal REM sleep. 

More about NarcolepsyNarcolepsy has a genetic component and tends to run in families

About 8 - 10% of people with narcolepsy have a close relative who has the disorder

Symptoms of Narcolepsy

Hallucinations

frightening, visual or auditory sensations while falling asleep or upon awakening.

Symptoms of Narcolepsy

Sleep paralysis

unable to move or talk at the beginning or end of sleep.

Symptoms of Narcolepsy

Cataplexy (60-90%)

sudden loss of muscle control while awake, usually triggered by strong emotions, such as laughing or crying.

Causes of NarcolepsyHypocretin, also called orexin, is a peptide promotes wakefulness, inhibits REM sleep, and associates with motor control

Narcoleptics generally do not have as many neurons that secrete hypocretin, which inhibits the ability to fully control alertness and accounts for tendency to fall asleep

Complications of Narcolepsy

Public misunderstanding of the condition

Interference with relationships

Physical harm

Treatments for NarcolepsyExcessive daytime sleepiness is treated with stimulants. Ex: modafinil

SSRIs suppress REM sleep and help alleviate the symptoms of cataplexy, hallucinations and sleep paralysis.

Ex: fluoxetineSodium oxybate is used for severe cataplexy and helps to improve night time sleep. Ex: Xyrem

Lifestyle modifications

Stick to a schedule 

Go to sleep and wake up at the same time every day, including weekends.

Take naps 

Schedule short naps at regular intervals during the day.

Lifestyle modificationsAvoid nicotine and alcohol 

Using these substances can worsen your signs and symptoms.

Get regular exercise 

Moderate, regular exercise at least four to five hours before bedtime may help you feel more awake during the day and sleep better at night.

Video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GmXSJooA6T4