Common misconceptions about narcolepsy

Narcolepsy causes loss of control over sleepiness and difficulty staying awake during the day, affecting adults and children alike.

Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder that affects the way the brain controls the sleep-wake cycle. Common symptoms include excessive daytime sleepiness, sudden muscle weakness, sleep paralysis or awakenings, and coma. Here are some myths about the condition.

Children do not get sick

According to the National Sleep Foundation, narcolepsy symptoms usually begin in the 5-6 years or early teens. The condition can be difficult to detect in children because some of the symptoms of narcolepsy in children are different from those in adults. Instead of falling asleep like adults, children often feel exhausted, restless, or unusually active.

If your child gets enough sleep but is still exhausted and excessively sleepy during the day, parents should take their child to see a doctor. Excessive sleepiness in children can also be caused by prolonged use of electronic devices late at night, anxiety and depression.

Need more sleep than others

Narcolepsy is not related to how much sleep a person needs. It affects the way the brain controls sleep and wake times, meaning that the signals to go to sleep or wake up come at the wrong time. Healthy lifestyle changes, combined with medication, can control narcolepsy symptoms.

Narcolepsy causes excessive daytime sleepiness. Photo: Freepik — Narcolepsy causes excessive sleepiness during the day. Photo: *Freepik*

Movement disorders

Many people think that people with narcolepsy can suddenly lose consciousness. However, people with narcolepsy often fall asleep while doing passive activities, such as sitting at a desk or watching a boring movie.

Dystonia is a type of movement disorder that causes loss of coordination between the brain and spinal cord, leading to uncontrolled movement. Dystonia is sometimes also a symptom of narcolepsy, so it is easily confused with this neurological disorder.

No trouble sleeping at night

Narcolepsy not only causes daytime sleepiness, but also interferes with good night sleep. Many people with this condition have trouble falling asleep, have trouble staying asleep, and suffer from sleep apnea.

No health effects

According to a 2014 study by the University of Minnesota and the University of Arizona (USA), people with narcolepsy lack a peptide that regulates diet and hunger, increasing the risk of obesity. Sudden weight gain can be a symptom of narcolepsy in children and is often seen in the early stages of the disease. Peptides are homeostatic mediators in energy metabolism and maintaining sleep-wake states.

Mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety are common in people with narcolepsy, reducing their quality of life. Researchers also point out that these patients have a high risk of high blood pressure, heart failure and stroke.

Narcolepsy is a chronic condition but can be treated and controlled. According to the Stanford Narcolepsy Center (USA), most patients regain 80% of their function in life with proper treatment.

Can't drive

Many people believe that people with narcolepsy should never drive. However, once symptoms are under control, people can drive, but should avoid long, monotonous trips. If the patient feels sleepy during the day, it is best to avoid driving.

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