Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder triggered by excessive sleepiness, hallucinations, sleep paralysis and inability to stay awake during any type of activity.

 

Narcolepsy is found either with or without cataplexy. Narcolepsy with cataplexy is caused by a lack of the chemical hypocretin in the brain. People who have this form of narcolepsy often experience sudden muscle weakness and lose control of the muscles in their face, arms, legs, or torso. The cause of Narcolepsy without cataplexy is unknown and people with this form of narcolepsy do not experience sudden muscle weakness or loss of control in their muscles.

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Symptoms of this disorder can be very dangerous and can cause people with the disorder to fall asleep or lose muscle control during normal daytime activities. The most dangerous scenarios may include driving a car, cooking, and operating machinery.

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The safety risks associated with narcolepsy make it important to seek help and consider treatment options.