Narcolepsy

=**NARCOLEPSY-** //**Ciara & Mary**//=
 * Defined as: a sleep disorder that causes excessive sleepiness and frequent daytime sleep attacks.**
 * Category of disorder: Nervous System Disorder**

**CAUSES:**

 * reduced hypocretin in the brain
 * body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue
 * run's in families
 * certain genes are linked to narcolepsy

There is not a cure; however, the drugs and treatments prescribed are used in order to control symptoms.
 * SYMPTOMS:**
 * periods of extreme immobility and sleepiness throughout the day
 * sleep attacks
 * short nap that lasts for about 15 minutes
 * happen after eating, while driving, talking to someone, or other situations during the day
 * experience dream-like hallucinations between sleep and being awake
 * sleep paralysis
 * can't move as they start falling asleep or when they first wake up
 * TREATMENT:**
 * doctors prescribe lifestyle changes in order to control sleepiness and sleep attacks
 * eating vegetarian or light meals during the day.
 * avoid heavier meals before important activities
 * plan brief naps after meals and during the day to avoid unplanned sleep attacks.
 * some people may be prescribed medication to help you stay awake during the day
 * stimulants such as: armodafinil, dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate (Ritalin)
 * PUBLIC VIEWS:**
 * people think that it isn't a real "disease" that it is just an excuse for people who are tired and want to sleep


 * WORKS CITED:**

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001805/

http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/guide/narcolepsy

http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/narcolepsy/detail_narcolepsy.htm