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This refers to the sudden and uncontrollable onset of sleep attacks during the day and in any situation; drowsiness that greatly affects the patient's life. It is not normally possible to identify the cause. The lack of a substance in the brain necessary to remain awake is sometimes identified and this deficiency may be hereditary. A cataplexy (muscular weakness of varying severity triggered by a sudden emotion) may also manifest. A suspected diagnosis is established from the patient’s medical history, supported by blood tests and a sleep study. There is no cure for narcolepsy, only symptom control using stimulants or antidepressants. It can be dangerous if it occurs when driving vehicles, using heavy machinery, or other high-risk activities.
- Ronald D Chervin, MD, MS. Approach to the patient with excessive daytime sleepiness. UpToDate. Jan 08, 2016.
- Thomas E Scammell, MD. Clinical features and diagnosis of narcolepsy in adults. UpToDate. Oct 02, 2015.
- Thomas E Scammell, MD. Treatment of narcolepsy in adults. UpToDate. Apr 07, 2015.
- Ozaki A, Inoue Y, Hayashida K, et al. Quality of life in patients with narcolepsy with cataplexy, narcolepsy without cataplexy, and idiopathic hypersomnia without long sleep time: comparison between patients on psychostimulants, drug-naïve patients and the general Japanese population. Sleep Med 2012; 13:200.
- Morgenthaler TI, Kapur VK, Brown T, et al. Practice parameters for the treatment of narcolepsy and other hypersomnias of central origin. Sleep 2007; 30:1705.
- Czeisler CA, Scammell TE, Saper CB. Trastornos del sueño. Harrison. Principios de Medicina Interna. Volumen 1. 19º Edición: 189-190
Dr. Sara Vitoria
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