Signs of Narcolepsy (Uncontrollable sleeping)

Description

A rare sleep disorder characterized by episodes of falling asleep at anytime and with little warning. These can occur during a conversation or while performing a task such as driving. Typically the episodes are preceded by a period of drowsiness, but the sleep cannot be prevented. The exact cause of this disorder is unknown, but patients experience a disruption of the normal patterns of Rapid Eye Movement (REM) and Non-Rapid Eye Movement (NREM) sleep. It is believed this abnormal sleep cycle causes many of the symptoms. Narcolepsy is believed to occur because of a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Symptoms

Persistent drowsiness (hypersomnia -- excessive daytime sleepiness), difficulty staying awake during classes or work, sudden uncontrollable need to sleep during the day (sleep attack), awake and refreshed feeling after each episode, hallucinations may come before sleep, hallucinations during sleep, sudden loss of muscle tone (cataplexy), temporary inability to use muscles (sleep paralysis).

Tests

A history and physical exam will be performed. Tests to rule out other causes of the symptoms are performed including imaging studies and an EEG (brain activity measurements). . The diagnosis is confirmed by sleep studies (polysomnogram), particularly a study called the Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT).

Standard Workup

CBC
Chem 12
Troponin
EKG
CT Scan
MRI

Treatment

There is no known cure. The goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms. Changing behavioral activities such as reducing stress, avoiding heavy meals, and taking daytime naps may reduce episodes. Medications may be necessary and include: dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine, DextroStat), methylphenidate (Ritalin), and modafinil (Provigil). For more information contact http://www.narcolepsynetwork.org/.