Narcolepsy

• Excessive daytime sleepiness: You tend to feel tired throughout the day even though you've slept well the previous night. This may cause you to take a nap after which you feel refreshed but a few hours later you feel tired again.
• Cataplexy: A condition in which you lose control of your muscles. Depending on the type of muscle affected, you may experience slurred speech or even buckled knees, causing you to collapse. Not everyone who suffers from narcolepsy experiences cataplexy in their lifetime.
• Hallucinations: Sometimes you may experience vivid hallucinations just as you are about to fall asleep. Since these visions begin when you are still somewhat awake, they feel even more real. In most cases, these hallucinations bring about a feeling of fear and dread.
• Memory loss: You may have trouble remembering things, owing to your semi-awake state when you first registered them.
• Sleep paralysis: Sometimes, while you are falling asleep or waking up, you may feel an inability to move or speak. This usually lasts for a minute or two and does not affect your ability to breathe, but can be extremely frightening nonetheless. 

If someone you know has been suffering from any of these symptoms, you can speak to them about their possible condition and suggest that they consult a mental health expert.

The exact cause of narcolepsy is not known. However, research suggests that there may be genetic factors that cause a deficiency in the production of the brain chemical hypocretin, which is responsible for regulating our sleeping and waking routine. The deficiency of this neurotransmitter results in sudden switches from wakefulness to sleep and vice versa. This is only one of the possible causes.

The general public is unaware of narcolepsy and may look down upon people who display the symptoms. For instance, in an office environment, showing excessive sleepiness or suffering a sleep attack may attract a lot of negative feedback. As a caregiver, it is important that you show a lot of support to the person suffering from this disorder. Talk to them about the condition and suggest that they meet a mental health professional. Encourage them to stop consuming alcohol, tobacco and caffeine. Let them know that you are always willing to listen and understand their problems. Along with the medications, support from family and friends is equally important in managing the symptoms of narcolepsy.

Living with narcolepsy can be challenging, but with a few adjustments, you can manage a normal life. Firstly, it is important that you talk to people at work or at school (employers, teachers) about your problem, so that you can work out a way to manage your need for rest. Avoid driving or any other potentially hazardous activity if you are experiencing even a hint of sleepiness. If you start to feel sleepy while driving, pull over to the side and take a break. It would be helpful to develop a regular exercise routine as this would increase your general energy levels. Try to avoid alcohol, tobacco and nicotine. If your doctor has prescribed a treatment plan, it is essential that you follow it strictly and inform them promptly about any side effects or changes in symptoms.