Narcolepsy – When Laughing Might Be Dangerous
While some people say “Laughter is the best medicine,” most narcoleptics would dread the idea of laughing. Narcolepsy is a sleep condition whereby someone experiences uncontrollable sleepiness. They fall asleep at the most inopportune times. Getting ecstatic, getting astonished, laughing out loud and any sudden activity can cause the attacks.
Narcolepsy has 4 significant indicators and symptoms: severe day sleepiness, cataplexy (losing muscle strength), sleep paralysis and hallucinations. It influences men and women and most likely starts in the adolescent years. Kids may also be afflicted however it is unusual specifically for little children younger than five years old. This can be a progressive sleep disorder that builds up as time passes. According to Narcolepsy Network, 1 out of 2,000 people in the U.S. are afflicted by narcolepsy. Sadly, the ratio of understanding of this sleep problem is actually lesser. That is why the typical actions of narcoleptics are often misunderstood. Those people who are at risk of narcolepsy typically take about ten to fifteen years before the very first signs are determined. It is because the symptoms are similar to other sickness and sleep disorders. It is also an extremely rare sleep problem so individuals would conclude the symptoms and signs to be some other ailment apart from narcolepsy.
Sadly, narcolepsy has no remedy yet. It can only be managed by taking medicine, having a change of lifestyle and therapy. Prescription drugs can include stimulants, anti-depressants and medications that help you sleep a lot more soundly at night. Change of lifestyle might include keeping a regular sleep schedule and keeping away from activities that could trigger narcolepsy disorder. Food and beverage such as liquor, products with caffeine and large meals should also be avoided.
Disclaimer: This posting is based on information freely available in the popular press and medical journals that deal with narcolepsy. Nothing herein is intended to be or should be construed to be any sort of medical advice. For medical advice the reader should consult with his or her physician or other medical specialist.