Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is a chronic neurological sleep disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness, cataplexy, and disturbed nocturnal sleep. Etiology includes autoimmune destruction of hypocretin-producing neurons, genetic predisposition (e.g., HLA-DQB1*06:02), and possible environmental triggers. Clinically, patients present with sudden sleep attacks, cataplexy triggered by strong emotions, sleep paralysis, and hypnagogic hallucinations. Diagnosis involves polysomnography and multiple sleep latency testing. Management includes stimulant or wakefulness-promoting medications, sodium oxybate for cataplexy, and behavioral interventions to improve sleep hygiene.