By Minh Tran Narcolepsy
Jan 04, 2016
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