Journal des troubles du sommeil : traitement et soins

Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is a severe sleep disorder characterized by overwhelming daytime drowsiness and sudden onsets of sleep and People with narcolepsy often find it difficult to stay awake for long periods of time, regardless of the circumstances. It can greatly affect daily life and common activities.

People suffering with narcolepsy may suddenly loss the involuntary muscle tone that makes the person difficult to move this condition is termed as cataplexy, Although cataplexy can occur spontaneously, it is more often triggered by sudden, strong emotions such as fear, anger, stress, excitement, or humor. Laughter is reportedly the most common trigger.

Narcolepsy can be treated with lifestyle changes and medications like modafinil and sodium oxybate are two drugs that have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of narcolepsy, individuals may develop tolerance with long term usage of stimulants. Keeping to a strict bedtime routine can also help, so you should go to bed at the same time each night whenever possible.