|
|
Narcolepsy Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by excessive sleepiness that is typically associated with the sudden loss of muscle tone and paralysis of voluntary muscles (cataplexy) that occurs with strong emotion like anger or laughter. This disorder also involves paralysis of the body that occurs in the transition from sleep to wakefulness and dream states that occur before you are actually asleep. Narcolepsy is a serious disorder that should be treated by a physician. The cause of narcolepsy is unknown, and it can occur with varying degrees of severity. Narcolepsy itself is not fatal, but fatalities have occurred when people with the disorder have fallen asleep while driving. Treatment consists of counseling and medications to increase alertness. Recently, a new drug, Provigil (Modafinil), has been approved for the treatment of narcolepsy to decrease sleepiness. There are support organizations for narcoleptics and their families. On the Internet, the Narcolepsy Network is available to assist in the education and treatment of people with narcolepsy.
|
|
About
Us | Provider
Directory | Employment Opportunities |