Narcolepsy

What is Narcolepsy

A chronic disorder of the central nervous system characterized by the brain's inability to control sleep-wake cycles. These “sleep attacks” can happen while eating, walking or driving.

Signs and Symptoms

Falling asleep at unusual times and in awkward places, excessive daytime sleepiness, cataplexy (a sudden loss of voluntary muscle tone that may be triggered by strong emotions), vivid dream-like images or hallucinations during sleep onset or when waking, and brief episodes of total paralysis, also during sleep onset or when waking.

Health Risks

Narcoleptic attacks can occur while driving an automobile or operating other types of machinery.

Treatment Options

Narcolepsy has no cure, but medicines, lifestyle changes and other therapies can improve symptoms.