Treatment For Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is a chronic neurological disorder that can be attributed as a sleep disorder. Narcolepsy is characterized by uncontrollable and sudden onset of sleep. The individuals suffering from this order skip the normal and gradual slumber that we all fall into. Instead they without warning might all of a sudden just fall into a deep sleep. This disorder can be dangerous if the concerned individual is driving, cooking or doing any other chore that requires them to awake and attentive.

Statistics have shown that this disorder is rather rare with only 1 in every 2000 people suffer from narcolepsy. Narcolepsy might typically impair the ability of the nervous system to regulate sleep. The messages from the brain to the various parts of the body regarding when to sleep and when to stay awake are warped in these individuals and hence the individual’s ability to stay awake is impaired. Some of the most common symptoms are cataplexy-which is a sudden loss of control of the muscles, sleep paralysis, hypnagogic hallucinations, and automatic behavior.

Causes and diagnosis of narcolepsy

At present, the main cause of this disorder is attributed to genetics. Along with the genetics, the environment coupled with a virus that affects the chemical balance of the brain is thought to be the cause of this disorder.

Excessive daytime drowsiness is the prominent feature that helps doctors diagnose patients suffering from this disorder. The other tests that physicians make use of to determine whether an individual suffers from this disorder are Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Nocturnal Polysonmogram, a Blood Test, and Multiple Sleep Latency Test.

Treatments for narcolepsy

One of the most effective treatments for narcolepsy is counseling and a support group. Patients who suffer from this disorder are generally found to withdraw from society and become recluses because they are ashamed of their disorder.

Stimulants such as amphetamine and methylphenidate are used to stimulate the central nervous system during the day. Antidepressants are commonly prescribed to suppress rapid eye movement (REM). Physicians also prescribe Modafinil and sodium oxybate.

These are just some of the treatments for narcolepsy. All treatments should only be undertaken under strict medical supervision.

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