Category Archives: Understanding Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy and Mental Health

The consequences of narcolepsy may be many and far-reaching. Cataplexy may interfere with physical activities, and efforts to avoid emotions may lead to social withdrawal. Sleep attacks and cataplexy in public are embarrassing and can cause serious social difficulties. Inability to work and/or drive may result in loss of independence, financial difficulties and various other problems. In these situations, a person can easily lose…

Narcolepsy Diagnosis

In Kenya, diagnosis is normally done by undergoing Electroencephalography (EEG) which monitors brain waves, a specialist will analyse your test results to determine whether you have normal brain wave activity, breathing patterns, and muscle and eye movement. Read more about EEG Excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) is often the first symptom to appear, and, for some, the primary symptom of narcolepsy. However, EDS is…

Narcolepsy Treatment

Narcolepsy has no cure The goal is to decrease EDS and reduce occurrences of cataplexy using minimal medication, EDS and cataplexy must be treated separately. Traditionally, central nervous system stimulants (i.e., Ritalin, Dexedrine, etc.) have been used for EDS. In 1999, Provigil (Modafinil) was the first stimulant approved for treatment of EDS associated with narcolepsy. Nuvigil, a longer-acting formulation of modafinil, has…

What is Narcolepsy?

Narcolepsy is a chronic (lifelong) neurological (brain-related) condition. Excessive daytime sleepiness is its most common symptom. If you have narcolepsy, you do not need more sleep than other people. Rather, you are not able to maintain normal sleep and wake states. The resulting irregular sleep patterns can make you extra sleepy during the day. These…