Navigating Narcolepsy

The rare condition narcolepsy causes persistent tiredness, ‘sleep attacks’ during the day, and in some cases, muscle weaknesses that can cause a person to collapse involuntarily.

Narcolepsy is a chronic neurological condition characterised by recurring periods of excessive sleepiness or lapses into sleep or napping within the same day (American Psychiatric Association 2013). It may also cause cataplexy (sudden involuntary muscle weakness or paralysis) (Brain Foundation n.d.).

Episodes of cataplexy may occur frequently and at any time, often triggered by strong emotions such as fear, anger, excitement or surprise. Attacks may happen during inappropriate moments including eating, talking or driving (Brain Foundation n.d.).

Narcolepsy is rare and estimated to affect about 1 in every 2,000 people, with onset generally during adolescence or early adulthood (though it can develop at any age). Symptoms may develop over a number of years (Sleep Health Foundation 2011).