What happens if you are diagnosed with narcolepsy?

What happens if you are diagnosed with narcolepsy?

If you have narcolepsy, you’ll usually fall asleep easily and enter rapid eye movement (REM) sleep very quickly. You may also have a blood test to find out whether you have a genetic marker known as HLA DQB * 0602, which is associated with narcolepsy.

How do you explain narcolepsy?

Narcolepsy is a chronic sleep disorder characterized by overwhelming daytime drowsiness and sudden attacks of sleep. People with narcolepsy often find it difficult to stay awake for long periods of time, regardless of the circumstances.

Do people with narcolepsy ever feel rested?

People with narcolepsy may feel rested after waking, but then feel very sleepy throughout much of the day. Many individuals with narcolepsy also experience uneven and interrupted sleep that can involve waking up frequently during the night.

What is your brain doing during narcolepsy?

Narcolepsy develops as a result of changes in the hypothalamus region of your brain. This small gland is located above your brain stem. The hypothalamus helps regulate the release of hormones that affect numerous parts of your body. For example, it’s responsible for releasing hypocretins, which help regulate sleep.

Is narcolepsy in the DSM?

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) defines narcolepsy as recurrent episodes of irrepressible need to sleep, lapsing into sleep, or napping occurring within the same day. These must have been occurring at least three times per week over the past 3 months.

How long does a Mslt take?

The MSLT is usually recommended if hypersomnia or narcolepsy are suspected. In these cases, the person can fall asleep even in the loudest or brightest of environments. The typical procedure of the test, which takes approximately seven hours to complete, is reviewed with the individual beforehand.

How can I help someone with narcolepsy?

Lifestyle and home remedies

1. Stick to a schedule. Go to sleep and wake up at the same time every day, including weekends.
2. Take naps. Schedule short naps at regular intervals during the day.
3. Avoid nicotine and alcohol. Using these substances, especially at night, can worsen your signs and symptoms.
4. Get regular exercise.

Can a person with narcolepsy work?

Daytime sleepiness can make it hard to sit for long periods at a computer or during meetings. Cataplexy can cause falls or short periods of inattention that lead to mistakes and accidents. However, with the right adjustments, most people with narcolepsy can work.