Narcolepsy Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Understanding
Narcolepsy or sleep attacks is a chronic sleeping disorder characterized by excessive sleepiness during the day which results in sleep attacks. People with narcolepsy have difficulty staying awake under any circumstances. This can cause interference in carrying out daily activities.
Narcolepsy is sometimes followed by loss of muscle strength (tonus) or cataplexy. As a result, people with narcolepsy will feel weak instantly.
Symptom
Symptoms of narcolepsy or sleep attacks are most often seen between the ages of 10 and 25. Symptoms include:
- Excessive sleepiness during the day People with narcolepsy will fall asleep anytime and anywhere. For example, the person will fall asleep instantly while working or talking to other people. People with this disorder can fall asleep for a few minutes to an hour before finally waking up and then falling back asleep.
- Sudden loss of muscle strength (tonus). Cataplexy or sudden loss of muscle strength can cause the body to become weak to the point of slurring speech. Cataplexy is uncontrollable and is usually triggered by certain emotions, for example: anger, pleasure, fear or shock.
- Paralysis during sleep. People with narcolepsy may have difficulty speaking or moving for a moment when falling asleep or waking up.
- Hallucinations. Hallucinations can occur while sleeping or waking up. You will feel as if your dream is coming true.
Reason
Narcolepsy or sleep attacks are thought to be caused by genetic factors and impaired neurotransmitter function and sensitivity (hypocretin).
Diagnosis
To determine the diagnosis of narcolepsy or sleep attacks, the doctor will conduct a series of interviews regarding the excessive sleepiness that you are experiencing. In addition, the doctor will also carry out a physical examination, especially to find out the loss of muscle strength (cataplexy).
Other tests that can be done to support the process of determining the diagnosis include:
- Sleep history
- Sleep recording
- Polysomnography
- Multiple sleep latency tests
Complications
Complications of sleep attacks or narcolepsy can include:
- Decreased performance at work or school
- Disturbances in interpersonal relationships with other people
- Obesity
- Physical trauma (eg risk of burns if the person falls asleep while cooking)
Treatment
There is no cure for sleep attacks or narcolepsy. However, with medication and lifestyle changes, the symptoms of narcolepsy can be better controlled. Drugs that are usually given to people with narcolepsy include anti-depressants and stimulants.