What is narcolepsy?

This is a brain disorder that makes you feel sleepy most of the time. People with narcolepsy sometimes fall asleep all of a sudden, even when they don't expect to. They can even fall asleep while they are in the middle of activities, such as eating, talking, or driving.

People usually develop narcolepsy during their teens or early 20s. But it can start earlier or later. Once it starts, the disorder can make it hard to work, do schoolwork, or do other normal activities.

What are the symptoms of narcolepsy?

The symptoms can include:

• Feeling sleepy during the day

• Falling asleep all of a sudden, often at inappropriate times – These are sometimes called "sleep attacks."

• Suddenly falling down, going limp, or feeling weak, especially when excited, angry, or laughing – This is called "cataplexy."

• Being unable to move or speak in the few moments right after waking or just before falling asleep

• Seeing, feeling, or hearing things that are not really there in the few moments before falling asleep or right after waking up – This can be scary and feel very real.

People with narcolepsy often have trouble sleeping at night, even if they are tired. They might fall asleep easily, but then wake up several times during the night.

Some people also have problems with depression or anxiety. Symptoms of depression include feeling sad most of the time, or losing interest in things you used to like. Symptoms of anxiety include feeling worried most of the time.

Should I see a doctor or nurse?

Yes. If you have symptoms of narcolepsy, see your doctor or nurse. The symptoms can be dangerous if they happen while you are driving or doing something that could lead to a fall or injury.

You should also talk to your doctor or nurse if you think you might have depression or anxiety. There are treatments that can help.

Will I need tests?

Yes. If your doctor or nurse suspects you have narcolepsy, they might send you to get a "sleep study." For the study, you stay overnight in a sleep lab. You are hooked up to different machines that monitor your heart rate, breathing, brain activity, and movements while you sleep. A few hours after the sleep study is done, you do another test. The lights are dimmed, you are given privacy, and you try to nap several times.

People with narcolepsy have abnormal sleep patterns during naps and at night. The sleep studies can detect these patterns.

How is narcolepsy treated?

Narcolepsy is usually treated with behavior changes and medicines.

People with narcolepsy should:

• Avoid medicines that can cause sleepiness, such as some allergy medicines.

• Take naps just before important events and at scheduled times during the day.

• Keep a regular sleep schedule.

• Try to get enough sleep at night.

People who are still very sleepy after trying these things can be treated with medicines to help them stay awake. The medicines can help, but even with treatment, people can still feel sleepy. That's why people who are being treated still have to be careful about the activities they do. For example, driving can be dangerous for some people with narcolepsy. Work with your doctor to make a plan that is safe for you.

The medicines used to help people stay awake can sometimes cause high blood pressure, decreased appetite, and other problems. Make sure you understand the risks and side effects of your medicines.

People who have muscle weakness or go limp when they feel strong emotions can get medicines to help with this, too.

What can I do on my own to cope with narcolepsy?

Consider seeing a counselor, and try to find support at work or school. Narcolepsy can make you feel sad, frustrated, and embarrassed. Also, other people who do not understand the condition might treat you as if you are lazy or accuse you of avoiding things. All this can be hard to cope with, so it can help to have someone to talk to.