Causes of Narcolepsy

The causes of narcolepsy are not fully known. This sleep disorder is a neurological disorder. Those that suffer from the condition are excessively tired during the day. They may have uncontrollable periods of falling asleep during day time hours. These periods are often referred to as an attack, since there is little to no control or warning of them and they can happen at any point, during any activity.

Stopping daytime sleepiness is a benefit of treating a sleep disorder.

Narcolepsy is a field in which doctors are working hard to fully understand the causes. The causes of narcolepsy are still undetermined, but there are a variety of studies and research facilities working to have a better understanding of the condition.

Doctors do believe that genes may be behind narcolepsy to some level. Genes inherited from parents may lead to individuals being more prone to narcolepsy. The particular genes in question control the output of chemicals in the brain. These chemicals are in use to control the sleep and awake cycle.

Another theory on the cause of narcolepsy includes a deficiency. Some scientists believe that a deficiency in the production of hypocretin could be behind the episodes. This chemical is in use by the brain to control sleep patterns.

Another potential cause is an abnormality in the structure of certain portions of the brain. These abnormalities can contribute to the lack of regulation of the REM sleep, a part of the sleep cycle.

Perhaps the most likely cause of narcolepsy is from a combination of factors, including any of those listed here. The condition is neurological, meaning it stems from the brain. It is a dysfunction in the brain's chemistry and in some way causes REM disturbances.

In normal people, the body moves through a five stage sleep cycle. This cycle includes various levels of sleep in which the brain waves are working at different lengths. REM is the most intense level of sleep. While you may feel deep in sleep, the brain is moving at its highest level, similar to the level it goes through when you are awake.

In healthy people, the sleep cycle is controlled by various brain functions, including hormones and neurotransmitters. In individuals who have narcolepsy, the sleep cycle is disturbed. They can fall asleep at virtually any time, but not of their own doing. Most often, the condition happens on its own. An individual just falls asleep, much like a fainting attack. The causes of narcolepsy may be the inability of the brain to regulate the sleep cycle, in particular the sleep and awake mechanisms.

Narcolepsy is a condition to be concerned about. It can put you in a dangerous position and will worsen over time. There is help available.

Most people begin to experience episodes between the ages of 15 and 25, but it can happen at any age. Since the condition can come on at any time, it is important to safeguard against driving or engaging in dangerous activities. If you have any of the symptoms of sleep disorders, in particularly the following, talk with your family doctor as soon as possible:

• Excessive sleepiness during the day: Many people experience the feeling of needing a nap, but those who are tired all the time, especially after a full night's sleep, should seek help.
• Hallucinations: These are often intense, very vivid and can be frightening in people with sleep disorders. They can be a sign of narcolepsy.
• Sleep paralysis: Sleep paralysis is the temporary inability to move or sleep. It occurs after falling asleep or right after waking up.
• Sudden episodes of sleep: Many people don't notice these symptoms themselves, but will be informed of them by others. A loss of time is also a common indication of a sleep disorder like narcolepsy.

While the cause of narcolepsy is not fully understood, doctors can help treat it. After a sleep study, doctors will determine if there are other health concerns or sleep disorders associated with your condition. Once diagnosed, doctors can find an appropriate treatment to help regulate sleep better.

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