Narcolepsy Diagnosis and Treatment
Many people suffer from a serious sleep disorder called narcolepsy. This condition is characterized by being very tired during the day and sometimes falling asleep during various everyday activities. We've already discussed the possible causes of this condition and the symptoms that go along with it. Here we will further discuss it's diagnosis and possible treatment options.
There are various other conditions that can cause sleepiness during the day, such as depression, insufficient sleep, fainting and seizure disorders. When all of these have been ruled out, the most likely culprit is narcolepsy. This is especially true if a condition called cataplexy (sudden loss of muscle tone) accompanies it.
Diagnosis can be made easier by answering various sleep related questions. It may also be necessary to consult a sleep specialist or have your sleep patterns observed at some type of sleep center. Multiple sleep latency testing is one way to have your sleep patterns evaluated. A Polysomnogram is another form of testing that is done at a sleep center. This involves monitoring the patient's heartbeat, eye movements, brain activity, and muscle movements while they are sleeping.
If narcolepsy runs in the family, a patient may undergo blood tests for antigens.
There is usually a combination of approaches used in the treatment of narcolepsy, including prescription medications, counseling, and behavioral changes. Training yourself to adopt more effective sleep routines is usually the first step. Stimulating your body during the day with some type of exercise can help to keep you awake during the day and make sleep easier at night. Another change would be to get into a routine of falling asleep and waking up at the same time each day. Daytime drowsiness can also be controlled with brief naps during the day. It is also a good idea to decrease your intake of alcohol, nicotine and caffeine.
When prescription medications are used, they are usually in the form of stimulants to aid in keeping you awake. A similar drug is Modafinil, which carries no risk of addiction. If a person suffers from cataplexy, sleep paralysis, or hypnagogic hallucinations during REM sleep, antidepressants can be used to to prevent REM sleep. These conditions can also be treated with the use of sodium oxybate.
Another effective treatment for narcolepsy comes in the form of counseling. There can be difficulties dealing with condition that may need to be worked out. People may also need to deal with negativity from others when going through this. To keep themselves safe, a narcolepsy sufferer may try to disconnect from the outside world. They may become reclusive and stop driving or going out of their homes. Depression will often result from this type of lifestyle.
It may also be hard to get support from people who do not understand the condition. Relationships can suffer due to feelings of doubt, mistrust, and a lower libido due to being tired all the time.
It is recommended that a person suffering from narcolepsy join some type of support group, along with some counseling. Being around people who understand can be very beneficial.
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Insomnia Sleep Aids and Medications
Insomnia Causes, Types and Diagnosis
Sleep Apnea Diagnosis and Treatment
Narcolepsy Symptoms and Causes
Insomnia Cures and Treatments
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Sleep Apnea Symptoms and Causes
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