Monday, December 6, 2010

How to Diagnose Narcolepsy?

Narcolepsy is not easy to diagnose; the main symptom of narcolepsy is “exhaustion”. We all feel exhausted due to hustle and bustle of our everyday life and hence, the condition of narcolepsy often gets mixed up with our general tiredness. However, if one has knowledge about the sleep disorder narcolepsy and the associated symptoms, it can definitely help them to distinguish between day to day tiredness and narcolepsy.  

In case of narcolepsy, the most important symptom to watch - a person suffering from narcolepsy may feel exhausted even during early mornings and that too after having very good night sleep.  The person may also fall asleep and may not have any control on his or her sleep patterns. If a person has some knowledge or information about the condition will definitely be able to distinguish from day to day life patterns. 

The other symptoms to watch are: 

Muscle Weakness (Cataplexy): A person may find it difficult to speak, there could be nodding of the head or may experience weakness of the knees. 

Unusual Dreams (Hallucinations): People who suffer from narcolepsy tend to have vivid dreams when they are falling asleep or waking up. These vivid dreams can seem very real and people often think that they can hear and smell things in their dreams.

Sleep Paralysis: People who suffer from this symptom often report not being able to move or speak while they are falling asleep or waking up. These people are fully conscious during the episode, which can last from a couple of seconds to a couple of minutes. If you suffer from sleep paralysis it can be very frightening.

If a person is doubtful of suffering from one or more of symptom’s of narcolepsy, it is advisable to make an appointment with a doctor and get diagnosed. The doctor will be able to determine if a person indeed has got narcolepsy or just need more sleep in his or her schedule.

A person doesn’t have to suffer through the day. If a person is properly diagnosed with narcolepsy, his or her life can improve dramatically with treatments. There is no reason to be ashamed, visit your doctor and get your life back!


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