Do you have difficulty staying awake for long periods, often falling asleep suddenly and without warning? If so, you might have narcolepsy, a sleep disorder that causes excessive daytime drowsiness. Below, I’d like to explore some common symptoms and causes.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF NARCOLEPSY?
As was noted above, the hallmark characteristic of narcolepsy is extreme daytime drowsiness that causes you to fall asleep suddenly. This can happen anytime and anywhere, including when you’re engaged in an activity (for example, while talking or driving). If you have narcolepsy, you may also experience:
Reduced alertness
Difficulty focusing
Hallucinations
Sleep paralysis
People with narcolepsy tend to move into rapid eye movement (REM) sleep more quickly. In some cases, individuals with narcolepsy experience a sudden loss of muscle tone (cataplexy), typically triggered by intense emotions. This can lead to muscle weakness or slurred speech lasting up to a few minutes.
WHAT CAUSES NARCOLEPSY?
Researchers continue to determine what causes narcolepsy. However, studies suggest that low levels of the chemical hypocretin (possibly due to an autoimmune response) could contribute to cataplexy. Having a family history of narcolepsy can also increase your chances of developing the disorder.
OFFERING THERAPY FOR NARCOLEPSY
Although there’s currently no cure for narcolepsy, treatment can help manage symptoms. If you need a therapist who specializes in treating narcolepsy, look no further than me. I have helped numerous clients struggling with narcolepsy, and I can do the same for you. Contact me today to schedule a consultation at a date and time that fits your schedule.
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