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Narcolepsy
By Minh Tran
What is Narcolepsy?
Narcolepsy is a neurologic disorder
characterized by excessive daytime
sleepiness and abnormal REM sleep.
More about Narcolepsy
Narcolepsy 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 Narcolepsy
Hypocretin, 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 Narcolepsy
Excessive daytime sleepiness is treated
with stimulants. Ex: modafinil
SSRIs suppress REM sleep and help
alleviate the symptoms of cataplexy,
hallucinations and sleep paralysis.
Ex: fluoxetine
Sodium 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 modifications
Avoid 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