Narcolepsy
A chronic neurological disorder of sleep-wake regulation, in the form that occurs without cataplexy
Get Evaluated TodayNarcolepsy is a chronic neurological disorder that affects the brain's ability to regulate sleep and wakefulness. It comes in two forms. Type 1 involves cataplexy, sudden brief muscle weakness triggered by strong emotion, and is associated with a deficiency of the neurotransmitter hypocretin. Type 2 is narcolepsy without cataplexy. Our clinicians treat the excessive daytime sleepiness of narcolepsy type 2 in adults who already carry that diagnosis. Diagnosis rests on overnight sleep testing followed by a daytime nap study, which this practice does not perform, so we confirm a diagnosis made elsewhere rather than make one. Where cataplexy is present, reported, or found during our screening, the diagnosis is type 1 and we refer to sleep medicine or neurology instead of treating.
Common Symptoms
Excessive daytime sleepiness
Sudden, hard-to-resist episodes of sleep during the day
Sleep paralysis
Vivid hallucinations while falling asleep or waking
Fragmented, frequently interrupted nighttime sleep
Unrefreshing sleep and naps
How Treatment Can Help
Modafinil is FDA-approved for the excessive daytime sleepiness of narcolepsy. It reduces sleepiness and helps people stay alert during the day. It treats the sleepiness only: it does not change the underlying disorder, it does not treat cataplexy, and the benefit ends when the medication stops.
Modafinil has risks and side effects. Review its safety information.
When to Seek Evaluation
Talk to a clinician if daytime sleepiness persists despite adequate nighttime sleep and interferes with your safety, work, or daily life. Our clinicians confirm and treat an existing diagnosis of narcolepsy type 2; we do not perform the sleep testing that establishes a diagnosis. If you have not been diagnosed, or if you experience sudden muscle weakness triggered by laughter, surprise, or anger, a sleep medicine specialist or neurologist is the right place to start.