Narcolepsy Flashcards
1
Q
What is narcolepsy?
A
A brain condition which disrupts the ability control sleep-wake cycle
2
Q
What is narcolepsy associated with?
A
- HLA-DR2
- Low levels of hypocretin, a protein which is responsible for controlling appetite and sleep patterns
3
Q
How does narcolepsy present?
A
- Typical onset in teenage years
- Excessive sleepiness
- Cataplexy: sudden loss of muscle tone triggered by emotion
- Sleep paralysis
- Vivid hallucinations upon sleep/waking
4
Q
How is narcolepsy investigated?
A
- Multiple sleep latency EEG
5
Q
How is narcolepsy managed?
A
Daytime stimulants: Modafinil
Nightime: Sodium oxybate
