Narcolepsy: What could be causing the sleep disorder?

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Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder that affects 1 in 2,000 people. It causes excessive daytime sleepiness that can lead a person to fall asleep suddenly, even while doing other activities. According to Lisa M. Cannon, M.D., individuals need to consult with a sleep medicine specialist for the appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Aside from excessive daytime sleepiness, people with narcolepsy may sometimes experience cataplexy, sleep paralysis, hallucinations, interrupted nighttime sleep, or even insomnia. Unlike others, those who have narcolepsy fall into the REM sleep within 15 minutes compared to the usual 60 to 90-minute interval. The disorder can be classified into two categories: Type 1 (with cataplexy) or Type 2 (without cataplexy). Those who have cataplexy may sometimes experience the sudden loss of voluntary muscle control due to strong emotions. This symptom may sometimes be misdiagnosed as a seizure. However, the difference between the two conditions is that the person who experiences cataplexy remains fully conscious.

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Sleep medicine specialist Lisa M. Cannon, M.D., explains that various factors contribute to narcolepsy. It could be because of one’s family history, a brain injury, or an autoimmune disease. However, a common factor is the loss of hypocretin, a neuropeptide that regulates a person’s wakefulness. Experts believe that hypocretin deficiency can be a lifelong condition. Fortunately, there are many treatments available for controlling the most common symptoms like excessive daytime sleepiness and cataplexy. Experts also suggest embracing lifestyle changes that will also improve the quality of nighttime sleep. Practicing healthy habits will also boost a person’s immunity, preventing other symptoms that could trigger the condition.

Lisa M. Cannon, M.D., is a board-certified pulmonary disease and critical care physician with a private practice in Bergen County, New Jersey. For more reads on health and medicine, visit this page.

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