Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is a sleep condition affecting 1 in 2,000 people. It is characterized by inappropriate sleep patterns and excessive – at times irresistible – daytime sleepiness.

It is caused by abnormalities in the levels of the hormone hypocretin, and symptoms usually appear between ages nine and eighteen.

It may also be accompanied by cataplexy – a sudden muscle weakness during emotional moments, sleep paralysis – inability to move shortly after waking, and hallucinations when falling asleep or waking.