DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Neurological Disease

Narcolepsy

LOW SEVERITY

A chronic neurological sleep disorder characterized by dysregulation of sleep-wake cycles. Type 1 (with cataplexy, hypocretin deficiency) and Type 2. Often triggered by environmental factors in genetically susceptible individuals (HLA-DQB1*06:02).

Global Affected

3.0M

Countries

15

Symptoms

Excessive daytime sleepiness
Cataplexy (sudden muscle weakness)
Sleep paralysis
Hypnagogic/hypnopompic hallucinations
Disrupted nighttime sleep
Automatic behaviors

Treatment Options

Medications
Physical therapy
Occupational therapy
Speech therapy
Surgical interventions
Deep brain stimulation
Rehabilitation
Supportive care

Risk Factors

1Age
2Family history
3Genetic mutations
4Head trauma
5Vascular disease
6Environmental exposures
7Infections
8Autoimmune disease

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Neurological examination
  • 2MRI/CT imaging
  • 3EEG
  • 4EMG/NCV
  • 5Lumbar puncture
  • 6Genetic testing
  • 7Neuropsychological testing

Prognosis

Lifelong condition with no cure. Symptoms typically stable after initial onset period. Type 1 (with cataplexy) tends to have more severe symptoms than Type 2. Sodium oxybate dramatically improves nighttime sleep and reduces daytime sleepiness. Stimulants and wake-promoting agents manage EDS. Scheduled naps help. Safety concerns for driving and operating machinery. Psychosocial support important. Normal life expectancy with treatment. Some evidence of increased cardiovascular risk.

Prevention

  • Head protection
  • Cardiovascular health
  • Cognitive stimulation
  • Physical exercise
  • Healthy diet
  • Avoidance of toxins
  • Regular monitoring

Research Status

Sodium oxybate (Xyrem/Xywav), pitolisant (H3 antagonist), solriamfetol (DNRI), and modafinil/armodafinil effective. Immunotherapy (intravenous immunoglobulin) may benefit recent onset. Gene therapy research ongoing.

Affected Countries

AustraliaBulgariaBrazilCanadaChinaGermanySpainFranceUnited KingdomHong KongIndiaItalyJapanMTUnited States

Sources

  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539800
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
  • https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions
  • https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.