Narcolepsy Research Paper

Narcolepsy Narcolepsy is a rare, debilitating sleep disorder, in which a person falls asleep uncontrollably. According to Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th Edition, it occurs in both males and females with an estimated 125,000-250,000 Americans suffering with this disorder. Although the cause of this disorder is unknown, scientist believe the hypocretin, a substance found in the neurons of the brain, are few or missing from the people diagnosed with Narcolepsy (American Medical Association Complete Medical Encyclopedia, 2003).
Diagnostic Criteria People with Narcolepsy exhibit four types of symptoms. R. L. Riha states, “The main symptoms are excessive daytime sleepiness, attacks of muscle weakness called cataplexy, sleep paralysis (transient mobility to move as you fall asleep or wake up) and visual hallucinations” (Riha, 2007 p.56). It is very important to see a healthcare provider if any of these symptoms begin. The healthcare provider will assess the symptoms, take a family, medical, and mental history. The provider may refer the patient to a sleep center for a MLST (Multiple Sleep Latency Test) and an overnight polysomnography (McKenna, McNicholas, 2003).
Age of Onset
This disorder is complex in diagnosing because some of the symptoms relate to other sleeping disorders. Lack of patient-physician communication leads to misdiagnosis and some may be delayed by 10 years after the first symptoms appear (Hayes, 2006). In adults, this disorder creates many problems with normal everyday tasks such as: working, driving, and going to social activities. Many people diagnosed with this disorder become distant and withdrawn from society because they are afraid of embarrassment or possible