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Narcolepsy

APSARA KATUWAL DANGOL


Narcolepsy (Sleep Disorder) is the neurological disorder characterized by sleep paralysis, hallucination, and cataplexy. Cataplexy is the partial or total loss of muscle often caused by strong emotions. The people with Narcolepsy suffers from the daily routine. They often fall sleepy during normal activities hours also. It hampers their daily routine. Due to their disorder, they usually need someone beside them to look after their activities.Research has found that those who have Narcolepsy has a low level of neurotransmitter hypocretin. Hypocretin is the chemical that regulates arousal, wakefulness, and appetite.




Though it seems normal but can be dangerous too. If the people with Narcolepsy are living alone, certain accidents can occur. There must be someone beside them to help them when suddenly they fall to sleep. Narcolepsy can occur at any age but usually, it has been seen between 15- 25 years in both male and female.About 1 in 2000 people are suffering from Narcolepsy which shouldn't be taken lightly. In a normal person, after sleeping, after 90 minutes, Rapid Eye Movement (REM) occurs where one can see dreams but a person with Narcolepsy has immediate Rapid Eye Movement.
Types of Narcolepsy

There are two types of Narcolepsy.

i. Narcolepsy with Cataplexy: It includes both excessive daytime sleepiness and cataplexy. It is caused due to strong emotions like loud noise, surprise, aggression, and joy.

ii. Narcolepsy without Cataplexy: It involves continuous excessive sleepiness without cataplexy. After each short nap period person may feel refreshed and after it, gets tired and again go for a nap.


Symptoms
i. Excessive daytime sleep,
ii. Hallucinations,
iii.Sleep paralysis,
iv. Night time disturbed sleep,
v. Memory problems,
vi. Sudden loss of muscle tone.

Diagnosis
The appropriate physical examination is necessary as well history related to sleep disorder has to be presented. Two test can be performed to diagnose a person with Narcolepsy. Polysomnogram (PSG) is an overnight test to check the abnormalities in the sleep cycle and Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT) involves the test performed during daytime to observe person's tendency to take nap apart every 2 hours.

Treatment
Research is going on but still, exact treatment is unknown. But with some lifestyle changes like doing exercise, healthy diet, avoiding heavy meals can also help in reducing sleep disorder. For sleepiness, Amphetamines are given and for abnormal REM antidepressants are given. Xyrem is prescribed for good night's sleep so, during the daytime, they fall sleep for less duration. Scheduling daytime short naps of 10 to 15 minutes can also help in reducing symptom.

Note: Please, take doctor's prescription for medication. This article is only for educational purpose.

About Writer

Apsara Katuwal Dangol, is writer, educator, and psychosocial counselor. She writes articles which covers topics related to general and developmental psychology. She teaches to MA Clinical Psychology students as Developmental Psychology Mentor at Tri-Chandra College, and General Psychology at Shubhashree College of Management.




Reference:

Disease and Conditions Narcolepsy
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/narcolepsy/basics/definition/con-20027429

Narcolepsy
https://sleepfoundation.org/sleep-disorders-problems/narcolepsy-and-sleep

Narcolepsy
http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/guide/narcolepsy#2-4

Narcolepsy
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy - Overview and Facts
http://www.sleepeducation.org/essentials-in-sleep/narcolepsy







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