Narcolepsy
Narcolepsy is a chronic sleep disorder that causes extreme daytime sleepiness and sudden sleep attacks. People with narcolepsy often feel tired no matter how much they sleep and may fall asleep unexpectedly during daily activities. This condition can affect work, school, and personal life, making it hard to stay focused and alert.
Narcolepsy is a lifelong condition, but with proper treatment, symptoms can be managed. It is often misunderstood, and many people go undiagnosed for years. At Somnium Sleep, we specialize in diagnosing and treating narcolepsy to help you regain control of your life and improve your sleep quality.
What is Narcolepsy?
Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder that affects the brain’s ability to regulate sleep-wake cycles. People with narcolepsy experience excessive daytime sleepiness and may fall asleep suddenly, even in the middle of conversations or activities. This can be dangerous and disruptive to daily life.
In addition to sleep attacks, narcolepsy can cause symptoms like cataplexy (sudden muscle weakness), sleep paralysis, and vivid dreams. These symptoms occur because the brain struggles to maintain a clear boundary between sleep and wakefulness. At Somnium Sleep, we provide personalized care to help manage narcolepsy symptoms effectively.
Narcolepsy Symptoms
- Excessive daytime sleepiness: Feeling extremely tired during the day, even after a full night’s sleep.
- Cataplexy: Sudden loss of muscle control triggered by strong emotions like laughter or anger.
- Sleep paralysis: Being unable to move or speak while falling asleep or waking up.
- Hallucinations: Vivid, dream-like experiences when falling asleep or waking up.
- Fragmented sleep: Waking up frequently during the night.
If you experience these symptoms, contact Somnium Sleep for help.
Types of Narcolepsy
- Type 1 Narcolepsy: This narcolepsy type type includes cataplexy (sudden muscle weakness) and is linked to low levels of a brain chemical called hypocretin.
- Type 2 Narcolepsy: This is a narcolepsy without cataplexy, and hypocretin levels are usually normal. Both types cause excessive daytime sleepiness and other symptoms.
What Causes Narcolepsy
The exact cause of narcolepsy is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute.
- Low hypocretin levels: A lack of this brain chemical affects sleep-wake regulation.
- Genetics: Family history may increase the risk of narcolepsy.
- Autoimmune disorders: The immune system may attack hypocretin-producing cells.
- Brain injuries or tumors: Damage to the brain can disrupt sleep regulation.
- Infections: Certain infections may trigger narcolepsy in some people.
Who Suffers from Narcolepsy?
How is Narcolepsy Diagnosed?
Polysomnogram
A polysomnogram is an overnight sleep study that monitors brain activity, eye movements, heart rate, and breathing during sleep.
Multiple Sleep Latency Test
This test measures how quickly you fall asleep during the day and checks for REM sleep abnormalities.
Narcolepsy Treatment
While there is no cure for narcolepsy, treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. At Somnium Sleep, we offer a combination of medications and lifestyle changes tailored to your needs.
Medications
- Stimulants: Help reduce daytime sleepiness and improve alertness.
- Antidepressants: Manage cataplexy, hallucinations, and sleep paralysis.
- Sodium oxybate: Improves nighttime sleep and reduces cataplexy.
- Wake-promoting agents: Help you stay awake during the day.
- Melatonin or sleep aids: Improve nighttime sleep quality.
Lifestyle Changes
- Stick to a sleep schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.
- Take short naps: Schedule 20-minute naps to reduce daytime sleepiness.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol: These can disrupt your sleep patterns.
- Exercise regularly: Physical activity can improve sleep quality and energy levels.
- Create a sleep-friendly environment: Keep your bedroom dark, quiet, and cool.
What Are the Latest Updates on Narcolepsy?
Recent advancements in narcolepsy research include.
- New medications: Improved treatments targeting hypocretin deficiency.
- Genetic studies: Better understanding of the role of genetics in narcolepsy.
- Immune system research: Exploring autoimmune causes and potential treatments.
- Diagnostic tools: More accurate tests for early detection.
- Patient support programs: Increased awareness and resources for people with narcolepsy.
How to Help Improve Care for People with Narcolepsy?
Improving care for people with narcolepsy starts with raising awareness and providing access to accurate diagnosis and treatment. Educating healthcare providers, employers, and the public about narcolepsy can reduce stigma and improve support. Encouraging research and funding for new treatments is also essential. At Somnium Sleep, we are committed to helping people with narcolepsy live healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Our Happy Patients Sleep Better Every Day
I came to this office with a serious sleeping problem to the point of going crazy. I had been unable to sleep properly for many months. Dr. Nabi helped me a lot with his diagnosis. Apart from being an excellent doctor, he was kind and very professional. Thank you, Dr. Nabi and team.
Emperatriz Rodriguez
Dr. Nabi doctor is a caring man and goes above and beyond to help his patients. His office staff are also amazing.
Deborah Goben
Dr. Nabi has been my sleep doctor for years now. No one compares to the exceptional service Somnium provides.
Forest Manor
Exceptional service, this should be everyone's go-to sleep clinic! Dr. Nabi answered all my questions so kindly and made sure I was comfortable and well-informed prior to the sleep study. Highly recommend!
Mehvish Qureshi
Dr. Nabi is a very good doctor! I highly recommend visiting this clinic if you’re having any sleep issues.
Aminah S
I came to this office with a serious sleeping problem to the point of going crazy. I had been unable to sleep properly for many months. Dr. Nabi helped me a lot with his diagnosis. Apart from being an excellent doctor, he was kind and very professional. Thank you, Dr. Nabi and team.
Emperatriz Rodriguez
Dr. Nabi doctor is a caring man and goes above and beyond to help his patients. His office staff are also amazing.
Deborah Goben
Dr. Nabi has been my sleep doctor for years now. No one compares to the exceptional service Somnium provides.
Forest Manor
Exceptional service, this should be everyone's go-to sleep clinic! Dr. Nabi answered all my questions so kindly and made sure I was comfortable and well-informed prior to the sleep study. Highly recommend!
Mehvish Qureshi
Dr. Nabi is a very good doctor! I highly recommend visiting this clinic if you’re having any sleep issues.
Aminah S
I came to this office with a serious sleeping problem to the point of going crazy. I had been unable to sleep properly for many months. Dr. Nabi helped me a lot with his diagnosis. Apart from being an excellent doctor, he was kind and very professional. Thank you, Dr. Nabi and team.
Emperatriz Rodriguez
Dr. Nabi doctor is a caring man and goes above and beyond to help his patients. His office staff are also amazing.
Deborah Goben
Dr. Nabi has been my sleep doctor for years now. No one compares to the exceptional service Somnium provides.
Forest Manor
Exceptional service, this should be everyone's go-to sleep clinic! Dr. Nabi answered all my questions so kindly and made sure I was comfortable and well-informed prior to the sleep study. Highly recommend!
Mehvish Qureshi
Dr. Nabi is a very good doctor! I highly recommend visiting this clinic if you’re having any sleep issues.
Aminah S
I came to this office with a serious sleeping problem to the point of going crazy. I had been unable to sleep properly for many months. Dr. Nabi helped me a lot with his diagnosis. Apart from being an excellent doctor, he was kind and very professional. Thank you, Dr. Nabi and team.
Emperatriz Rodriguez
Dr. Nabi doctor is a caring man and goes above and beyond to help his patients. His office staff are also amazing.
Deborah Goben
Dr. Nabi has been my sleep doctor for years now. No one compares to the exceptional service Somnium provides.
Forest Manor
Exceptional service, this should be everyone's go-to sleep clinic! Dr. Nabi answered all my questions so kindly and made sure I was comfortable and well-informed prior to the sleep study. Highly recommend!
Mehvish Qureshi
Dr. Nabi is a very good doctor! I highly recommend visiting this clinic if you’re having any sleep issues.
Aminah S
Why Choose Us?
Expert Staff
We have pulmonologists, sleep medicine physicians, and neurologists who have expertise in using the tools and the treatment and diagnoses related to sleep disorders.
Certification
Expensive Equipment
FAQS
Where to Get Help for Narcolepsy Treatment?
If you or a loved one is struggling with narcolepsy, Somnium Sleep can help. Our team of experts will make a proper treatment plan to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.