What Is Narcolepsy?

What is narcolepsy? Narcolepsy is a disorder of the nervous system, involving the control of sleep and waking. People with narcolepsy experience excessive sleepiness during the day and occasional uncontrollable episodes of sleep during the day. These sudden sleep attacks can occur during various types of activities throughout the day.

In a normal cycle of sleep, we go into the early stages, followed by periods of deep sleep and after about 90 minutes, rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. For people with narcolepsy, REM sleep occurs almost immediately in the cycle of sleep, and periodically during the day. We dream and experience muscle paralysis during REM sleep.

Narcolepsy usually begins between the ages of 15 and 25, but can occur at any age. In many cases, narcolepsy is not diagnosed and therefore not treated.

Causes of narcolepsy

The cause of narcolepsy is unknown, but scientists have begun to identify genes closely related to the disease. These genes are believed to control the production of chemicals in the brain that signal sleep and waking cycles. Some experts believe that narcolepsy may be due to a defect in the production of a brain chemical called hypocretin. Furthermore, researchers have discovered abnormalities in various brain regions involved in regulating REM sleep. According to experts, it is likely that narcolepsy involves numerous factors that interactively cause neurological problems and disturbances of REM sleep.

Symptoms of narcolepsy

Diagnosis of narcolepsy

A clinical and complete medical history is required for a proper diagnosis of narcolepsy. Several specialized tests may be done in a sleep disorders clinic, before a diagnosis can be determined. Two tests, considered essential for a diagnosis of narcolepsy are polysomnogram (PSG) and the multiple sleep latency test (MSLT).

The PSG is performed overnight, taking many measurements while the patient sleeps in order to record abnormalities. A PSG can help determine if REM sleep occurs normally and whether the symptoms could result from a different condition.

The MSLT is done during the day to measure the patient's tendency to fall asleep and wither parts of REM sleep interfere at unusual times during the day. The test involves taking four or five quick naps at regular schedules.

Treating narcolepsy

Although there is no cure for narcolepsy, controlling the disabling symptoms of the condition is possible with medication. Stimulants can be used to treat sleepiness and abnormal REM sleep can be treated with anti-depressants.

There is a new drug for people with narcolepsy and cataplexy. This drug, Xyrem, helps people with narcolepsy sleep better, so they are less sleepy during the day.

Helfpul lifestyle changes include caffeine, alcohol, nicotine avoidance, as well as regulating sleep time, naps and exercise.

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