Narcolepsy is a chronic sleep disorder and a neurological condition that affects how well the brain regulates one’s sleep cycle. One may find oneself excessively and uncontrollably sleepy during the day, especially in calming settings, or doze off even in the middle of an activity. Researchers conclude that the disorder remains undiagnosed in most individuals and currently affects approximately 1 in 2,000 people. Learn more about its causes, symptoms, and remedies below.

Types of narcolepsy
A normal sleep cycle has three main stages: The early light-sleep state, followed by a deeper state, and finally by Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep. REM occurs about 90 minutes after one dozes off. In narcolepsy, patients enter REM sleep within 15 minutes.

Narcolepsy can be Type 1 or Type 2. Type 1 narcolepsy patients exhibit low levels of hypocretin, a chemical produced by the brain to regulate one’s sleep. They also suffer from cataplexy, a sudden muscular weakness resulting from emotional stimuli like laughter, fear, surprise, or stress.

Type 2 patients have normal hypocretin levels and no cataplexy but experience excessive daytime sleepiness. Type 2 symptoms are comparatively less severe, but both severely disrupt one’s day-to-day life.

Symptoms of narcolepsy
Narcolepsy symptoms likely begin in childhood, adolescence, or young adulthood. If one experiences frequent episodes of any of the following symptoms, it’s best to consult a doctor immediately.

Temporary muscular weakness and sleep attacks are common signs of narcolepsy. They may further result in impaired memory, brain fog, poor focus, low energy, or depression. Other early symptoms include vivid sensory hallucinations and sleep paralysis.

Causes of narcolepsy
The exact cause of narcolepsy is not known. Several variables may interact to induce narcolepsy. Some common causes include family history and traumatic brain injury that affect one’s REM sleep or brain cells that produce hypocretin. It can also be triggered by environmental toxins like pesticides, heavy metals, and secondhand smoke and emotional reactions like laughter, stress, or excitement.

Natural remedies for narcolepsy
Narcolepsy is best managed with behavioral modification. Good sleep hygiene, regular bedtime hours, healthy food habits, and regular exercise are some of the natural remedies supporting restful sleep. One should focus on taking purposeful naps. Lifestyle changes and participating in support groups can also help manage narcolepsy.

Foods to have for narcolepsy
People with narcolepsy find it difficult to stay awake for a long time. Some foods that can help maintain regular sleep cycles include complex carbs like berries, whole grains, legumes, and sweet potatoes. Lean proteins and healthy fats like fish, lean chicken, nuts, brown rice, carrot sticks, and avocado can help maintain one’s energy. Besides, coffee or other caffeine-rich drinks can help people manage daytime sleepiness.

Foods to avoid for narcolepsy
Avoid foods like ice cream and cakes that give one a sugar rush. These low-carb foods spike one’s glucose level, leading to more drowsiness. Also, avoid spicy foods like jalapenos, red pepper, and chilies that disrupt sleep.

Treatments for narcolepsy
Narcolepsy requires close monitoring by a physician. Its treatment is majorly centered around one’s symptoms. Stimulants and therapies are commonly used for those experiencing sleep attacks. Similarly, cataplexy, sleep paralysis, and hallucinations are treated with certain antidepressants. Ongoing studies are coming up with cell transplantation and gene therapies that can help cure narcolepsy. Since the treatments are specific to individuals, doctor consultation is crucial.