HEALTH: An Overview of Narcolepsy – Mit kell tudni a narkolepsziáról?

Narcolepsy is a chronic sleep disorder that is characterized by excessive sleepiness during daytime hours. People with narcolepsy may fall asleep during an activity such as eating or talking. Narcolepsy can interfere with daily life, work, and other activities. Symptoms of Narcolepsy The most obvious symptom of narcolepsy is excessive sleepiness. Sleepiness occurs regardless of the amount of sleep a person gets each night. Cataplexy is a sudden loss of muscle control that may occur in people who suffer from narcolepsy. Individuals with narcolepsy may experience cataplexy frequently, infrequently, or not at all. In some cases, cataplexy may appear years after a person has been diagnosed with narcolepsy. Symptoms of narcolepsy may also include sleep-related hallucinations in which the person experiences vivid imagery which can be frightening. They may also experience the inability to speak or move upon awakening. This condition is known as sleep paralysis. People with narcolepsy may also suffer from insomnia or other disruptive sleep patterns. Causes of Narcolepsy The cause of narcolepsy is not entirely understood. However, many physicians believe it is the result of several factors. Narcolepsy may be caused by an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks certain brain cells that regulate […]