Narcolepsy

Have you ever heard of a disorder called Narcolepsy? Some of you might have, especially because it has been parodied in certain movies or TV shows. I understand that watching someone suddenly fall asleep might seem amusing, but is that really what happens? Let’s clarify things in my own words.

Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder in which the affected individual has a constant need to sleep, and their sleep attacks are irresistible. Unlike hypersomnolence, where the person experiences excessive sleepiness despite a long, non-restorative sleep, in narcolepsy, the person must sleep—there is no choice.

One aspect of narcolepsy that often surprises people is cataplexy. During these episodes, the person suddenly collapses as if they have fallen asleep. However, in reality, they remain fully conscious and aware. These episodes are often triggered by laughter or joking.

One recognized cause of narcolepsy is the loss of certain cells in the hypothalamus (a structure in the brain, specifically in the diencephalon). These cells produce a molecule called hypocretin, which regulates the sleep-wake cycle. Additionally, people with narcolepsy enter REM sleep much faster than those with a typical sleep pattern.

Narcolepsy can present with various symptoms, the most common being:

• Nightmares and vivid dreams
• Night eating syndrome (obesity is common in this disorder)
• Aggressiveness and behavioral problems in children and adolescents.

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), narcolepsy is characterized by:

• Recurring and irresistible sleep attacks, occurring at least 3 times per week for the past 3 months
• At least one of the following symptoms:
  • Episodes of cataplexy
  • Deficiency of hypocretin
  • REM sleep latency of less than 15 minutes

Sources:

• American Psychiatric Association (2013) - Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.).
• Bernhill, J. W. (2014) - DSM-5 Clinical Cases.

I also recommend watching this video.

If you’d like me to describe another psychology topic in my own words, let me know in the comments!