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What Is Narcolepsy?

Narcolepsy is a chronic sleep disorder that affects the brain's ability to control sleep-wake cycles. People with narcolepsy may have sleep attacks that come on without warning. Narcolepsy symptoms often start in younger people ages 7 to 25. But can also appear later in life. It can be diagnosed by a healthcare provider or a sleep specialist.

Symptoms of narcolepsy

You may have any of the following symptoms:



  • Cataplexy. A sudden loss of muscle control or tone. It's often triggered by stress or emotion, such as laughter, fear, or anger.




Understanding REM sleep and its link to narcolepsy 

REM (rapid eye movement) is the dreaming portion of sleep. REM sleep usually starts after the first 60 to 90 minutes. For people with narcolepsy, REM sleep starts much sooner, usually within 15 minutes of sleep. This can make dreaming so vivid, it seems real. 


Online Medical Reviewer: Allen J Blaivas DO
Online Medical Reviewer: Daphne Pierce-Smith RN MSN CCRC
Online Medical Reviewer: Rita Sather RN
Date Last Reviewed: 9/1/2019
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