NARCOLEPSY AND EXTREME DAYTIME SLEEPINESS
Are you experiencing an overwhelming feeling of daytime drowsiness? Find out if you suffer from narcolepsy.
A CHRONIC SLEEP DISORDER
Narcolepsy is a chronic sleep disorder characterized by overwhelming daytime drowsiness and sudden sleep onset. People with the condition often find it challenging to stay awake for long periods of time, regardless of the circumstances.
SYMPTOMS OF NARCOLEPSY
The signs and symptoms manifest both at night and during waking hours. They may worsen for the first few years of the disorder and can continue indefinitely. These symptoms include:
• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Sudden loss of muscle tone
• Sleep paralysis
• Changes in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep
• Hallucinations
• Disrupted nighttime sleep
In addition to these symptoms, narcoleptics may also have other sleep disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), restless leg syndrome and insomnia. People may also experience automatic behavior. Automatic behavior is characterized by the continuation of a mundane task such as writing, reading or driving after falling asleep involuntarily.
DIAGNOSING NARCOLEPSY
If you think you may be narcoleptic, contact our expert team at VitalCare Family Practice. We will discuss your medical history and symptoms to determine the best method of diagnosis.
Formal diagnosis requires staying overnight at a sleep center for an in-depth sleep analysis by sleep specialists. Methods of diagnosing this condition and determining its severity include:
• Sleep history, which includes the Epworth Sleepiness Scale
• Sleep records, or a detailed diary of your sleep pattern for 1-2 weeks
• Polysomnography, which measures the electrical activity of your brain and heart and the movement of your muscles and eyes and your breathing
• Multiple sleep latency test, which measures how long it takes you to fall asleep during the day
TREATING NARCOLEPSY
While there is no definitive cure for narcolepsy, medications and lifestyle modifications can help you to manage the symptoms. Researchers are currently working on emerging treatments for narcolepsy, but further research is needed before any of these treatment options may be available in your doctor’s office.
If you are displaying symptoms of narcolepsy, contact our office in Chesterfield, VA. Our expert and compassionate team is here to help you find the cause of your sleep issues, manage your symptoms, and take control of your sleep health. Call us at 804-256-8282 or fill out our appointment schedule form here.
