Essay On Narcolepsy

Sleep Disorder Research Project-Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is a chronic sleep disorder due to overwhelming downiness and sudden attacks of sleep. The word narcolepsy comes from two Greek words translated as “seized by numbers”. The cause of narcolepsy is unknown. Most people with narcolepsy have low levels of the chemical hypocretin. It is first describes by doctors in the 1870s. Narcolepsy affects both males and females equally.

Symptoms often start in childhood, but it can occur later life. Narcolepsy is a life- long conditions, it is not rare but it is an underrecognized and underdiagnosed condition. Experiences in narcolepsy various different types of day: excessive daytime sleepiness, cataplexy, sleep paralysis, hallucinations, disrupted nocturnal sleep, and obesity. Cataplexy is a sudden loss of muscle tone while the person is awake that leads to feelings of weakness and a loss

Doctors prescribe central nervous system alerting agents such as modafinil and amphetamine-like stimulates to alleviate EDS and reduce the incidence of sleep attacks. GHB or Xylem can be used to treat narcolepsy. Sodium oxybate is a strong sedative that must be taken during the night. It induces sleep and reduces the symptoms of daytime sleepiness and cataplexy. You can also use behavioral strategies to help cope with your symptoms. Many individuals take short regular scheduled naps at times when they need to feel sleepiest. You can also maintain a regular sleep schedule avoid alcohol and caffeine containing beverages, avoid large, heave meals just before your bedtime, avoid smoking, maintain a comfortable warm bedroom and engage in relaxing activities such as a warm bath before bedtime. You should also exercise for at least 20 minutes per day at least 4 to 5 hours before bedtime, it improves sleep quality and can help people with narcolepsy avoid gaining