What is narcolepsy?

Narcolepsy is a chronic sleep disorder that causes sudden attacks of daytime drowsiness. You may also fall asleep during activities.

The underlying cause of narcolepsy isn’t well understood, but imbalances in the brain chemicals that regulate wakefulness and sleep may play a role. Narcolepsy often begins between the ages of 10 and 30, and you may be at increased risk if family members have it.

Pure Psychiatry of Michigan offers comprehensive care for narcolepsy. The medical team provides in-office diagnostic evaluations and creates treatment plans to improve sleep quality and overall health.

When should I seek medical attention for narcolepsy?

Schedule a diagnostic evaluation at Pure Psychiatry of Michigan if you experience symptoms of narcolepsy. The most common symptom of the disorder is falling asleep without warning wherever you are. For instance, you may be talking with a friend and suddenly fall asleep for a few minutes.

Sudden loss of muscle tone (cataplexy) is a side effect of narcolepsy that some people experience, especially during episodes of intense emotions. Cataplexy causes rapid physical changes like muscle weakness and slurred speech that lasts several minutes. 

You may experience sleep paralysis, a temporary inability to speak or move when falling asleep or waking up. This condition only lasts a few minutes but can be frightening.

To confirm that your symptoms relate to narcolepsy, the Pure Psychiatry of Michigan team reviews your personal and family medical histories and completes a physical exam. They may order a sleep study to assess your body movements and vital signs while you sleep.

How is narcolepsy treated?

The Pure Psychiatry of Michigan team creates a customized treatment plan to help you manage narcolepsy symptoms. Your plan may include:

Medications

Stimulants work on your central nervous system to keep you awake during the day. You may benefit from antidepressants that reduce the symptoms of cataplexy and sleep paralysis.

Lifestyle changes

Making changes to your daily routine can ease symptoms of narcolepsy. Stick to a regular sleep schedule, take naps at certain times of the day, and exercise regularly.

Counseling

Counseling helps you cope with the impact narcolepsy symptoms have on your life. The team provides resources that empower you to face the challenges the disorder causes so you can enjoy a happier, more fulfilling life.

Call Pure Psychiatry of Michigan to schedule a diagnostic evaluation for narcolepsy or book an appointment online today.