Many people suffer from narcolepsy, a disorder that causes many problems, whether health-related, psychological, or even societal, as it causes muscle weakness, loss of concentration, and difficulty during wakeful periods, leading to a decline in daily performance.
Therefore, it is important to limit its symptoms and treat it to prevent its complications. Medical advancements have provided us with some effective methods and approaches that help control its symptoms and improve the quality of life.
Narcolepsy Sleep Disorder
Narcolepsy, also known as sleep paralysis or numbness, is a sleep disorder characterized by sudden sleep attacks during the day involuntarily. It may also cause a loss of muscle control or muscle weakness.
Pharmacological Treatment for Narcolepsy
Drug therapy is the most common treatment method for controlling sudden sleep attacks and limiting their accompanying symptoms. These include:
- Stimulants for the central nervous system.
- Tricyclic antidepressants.
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Venlafaxine and Fluoxetine.
- Oxybates, which help reduce excessive drowsiness.
- Wakefulness-promoting medications.
Central Nervous System Stimulants to Overcome Sleep Attacks
Central nervous system stimulants are the first choice of treatment because they reduce episodes of excessive daytime sleepiness and help improve the ability to stay awake and resist sleep. They work by increasing the concentration of chemicals responsible for alertness in the brain.
Consequently, they help resist sudden sleep attacks and allow for the performance of daily activities. These medications should be used after consulting a specialist doctor to get the appropriate dosage and avoid any side effects.
The Role of Antidepressants in Treating Cataplexy
Tricyclic antidepressants play an important role in reducing episodes of cataplexy associated with narcolepsy. These are episodes where the patient suddenly loses the ability to control their muscles.
They also help reduce sleep-related hallucinations and prevent sleep paralysis by maintaining a balance of neurotransmitters in the brain responsible for improving mood and regulating sleep cycles, such as serotonin and norepinephrine.
Behavioral Therapy for Narcolepsy
Behavioral therapy contributes to controlling the symptoms associated with narcolepsy by correcting daily habits, identifying factors that cause sleepiness or cataplexy attacks, and avoiding these factors to promote alertness and awareness.
Strategies of behavioral therapy include sleep regulation, improving morning routines, exposure to sunlight, maintaining daily alertness exercises, in addition to relaxation techniques and developing social coping skills.
Regulating a Schedule for Sleep-Wake Cycles
Sleep regulation is one of the most important effective behavioral therapy strategies and plays a significant role in reducing symptoms. This is achieved by setting a fixed schedule for wakefulness and sleep cycles at night, along with scheduling times for short daytime naps to alleviate sleep attacks without affecting nighttime sleep quality.
A sleep schedule helps maintain the body's circadian rhythm balance, reduces feelings of fatigue or exhaustion during the day, and contributes to enhancing concentration and supplying energy for daily activities.
The Technique of Short Naps for Treating Daytime Sleep
Short daytime naps, lasting between 10-20 minutes, help control excessive sleepiness episodes during the day. Regular naps promote a feeling of alertness during the day and increase concentration. Therefore, it is recommended to integrate the strategy of short daytime naps into the daily routine.
Physical Activities to Reduce Narcolepsy Symptoms
Regular exercise and physical activity help reduce the feeling of excessive sleepiness. They work by activating blood circulation and stimulating the nervous system, which reduces sudden sleep attacks. They also help improve nighttime sleep quality and increase energy levels and concentration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is narcolepsy a psychological illness?
No, it is not considered a psychological illness. Rather, it is a chronic neurological condition that affects the brain's ability to regulate sleep and wake cycles.
Is narcolepsy dangerous?
It is not considered a dangerous disease, but it causes complications that can be risky for the patient's health and safety, such as sleep paralysis and sudden muscle stiffness while driving, which can increase the risk of accidents and injuries.
Article Summary
In conclusion, narcolepsy is a chronic neurological condition that causes sudden sleep attacks during the day and cataplexy. Therefore, early diagnosis and adherence to an appropriate treatment plan, whether pharmacological or behavioral, helps limit its symptoms and control it.