From the Office of Dr. Albert Lee: Basic Facts about Narcolepsy

1. From the Office of Dr.
Albert Lee: Basic
Facts about
Narcolepsy

2. Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder in which the
brain is unable to regulate normal sleep/wake
cycles. The disorder causes people to experience
sudden bouts of sleepiness which cause them to
fall asleep suddenly, and stay asleep for a few
seconds or minutes. However, some people may
sleep for hours. Sleep attacks are often
accompanied by other unpleasant symptoms,
such as a few moments of paralysis or vivid
hallucinations. Cataplexy, which may feel like a
relatively mild muscle weakness or may be severe
enough to cause the person to fall, is a common
symptom of narcolepsy.

3. Often, treatment involves a combination of
medications and behavioral modification such as
daytime naps to prevent excessive sleepiness, a
regular sleep schedule, and avoidance of alcohol
and caffeine, especially before bedtime. Although
there is no cure for narcolepsy, extensive
research may someday result in a cure. In the
meantime, treatments often help reduce the
severity of the symptoms.

4. About the Author: A board-certified neurologist,
Dr. Albert Lee serves as President of Indiana
Neurology Specialty Care. He holds membership
in the American Board of Psychiatry and
Neurology, the Indiana State Medical Association,
the Mayo Clinic Alumni Association, the Queen’s
University Alumni Association, and the Royal
College of Physicians. He specializes in a number
of neurological disorders, including those that
affect sleep.