Table of Contents
Does narcolepsy get worse if untreated?
Narcolepsy is a lifelong problem, but it does not usually worsen as the person ages. Symptoms can partially improve over time, but they will never disappear completely. The most typical symptoms are excessive daytime sleepiness, cataplexy, sleep paralysis, and hallucinations.
Can you have narcolepsy and idiopathic hypersomnia?
Type 1 narcolepsy and idiopathic hypersomnia (IH) are two conditions associated with excessive sleepiness….Symptom comparison chart.
| Type 1 narcolepsy | Idiopathic hypersomnia | |
|---|---|---|
| Sleep attacks | Yes | Yes |
| Brain fog | Yes | Yes |
| Cataplexy | Yes | No |
| Sleep paralysis | Yes | Sometimes |
Should people with narcolepsy take naps?
Most people with narcolepsy find a brief nap refreshing, with improved alertness for one to three hours afterwards. Naps should be limited to 15–20 minutes, as it can be difficult to wake from the deep sleep of a long nap, and an extended nap in the afternoon may make it harder to fall asleep at night.
How much sleep does someone with narcolepsy need?
In addition to any of the typical narcolepsy symptoms, people with secondary narcolepsy also have severe neurological problems and require large amounts (>10 hours) of sleep. To understand the symptoms of narcolepsy, it helps to first understand how sleep happens normally.
How is narcolepsy different from hypersomnia?
Hypersomnia and narcolepsy are related but distinct medical terms. Narcolepsy is a specific neurological disorder that causes sudden attacks of deep sleep, while hypersomnia is a symptom, and refers to excessive daytime sleepiness more generally. Hypersomnia, or hypersomnolence, is a symptom of narcolepsy.
Can idiopathic hypersomnia go away?
There is no cure but many people can control the symptoms of IH (at least in part) with medication. As more is learnt about the systems in the brain that control sleeping and waking, there is the promise that new drugs will be developed for IH.
Can you have narcolepsy and not fall asleep during the day?
Many people with narcolepsy are unable to stay awake and alert during the day. There are times when they have an irrepressible need for sleep, or unintended lapses into sleep.
How can I Manage my narcolepsy on a daily basis?
Regular exercise and a good diet promote general health and alertness for people with narcolepsy. Monitor your caffeine use: it may interact with medications and disrupt nighttime sleep. Narcolepsy is usually treated with behavioral strategies plus carefully chosen medications. Behavioral strategies include taking daytime naps and staying active.
What medications should I avoid if I have narcolepsy?
Certain over-the-counter drugs, such as allergy and cold medications, can cause drowsiness. If you have narcolepsy, your doctor will likely recommend that you avoid taking these medications.
How can teens with narcolepsy stay awake while studying?
Additional ideas for staying awake at school and while studying can be found in Tips for Teens with Narcolepsy: Improving Alertness (PDF). In regards to cataplexy, medications are usually the most effective way to manage this symptom, but some behavioral strategies may also help: Get enough sleep.
What are the benefits of napping for narcolepsy?
Scheduled napping can help people cope with daytime drowsiness. After a brief period of sleep, most people with narcolepsy wake up refreshed. Planned naps can heighten alertness at key parts of the day and prevent them from falling asleep involuntarily.