Cause 2. Narcolepsy: The Uncontrollable Desire for Sleep
Narcolepsy is a chronic sleep disorder characterized by overwhelming daytime drowsiness and sudden attacks of sleep. It’s caused by the brain’s inability to control sleep-wake cycles. At various times throughout the day, people with narcolepsy experience fleeting urges to sleep. If the urge becomes overwhelming, individuals will fall asleep for periods lasting from a few seconds to several minutes.
Typically, narcolepsy is often misunderstood and undiagnosed. Those suffering from it are not lazy or lethargic; instead, they have a life-long medical condition that can significantly impact their professional and personal lives.
While the exact cause of narcolepsy isn’t known, it’s believed to be linked to a deficiency of hypocretin, a neurochemical in the brain that controls whether we are awake or feel sleepy. People with narcolepsy have about 90 percent less hypocretin in their brains than those without the condition.
Despite its severity, narcolepsy is a manageable condition. Management strategies can include good sleep hygiene, scheduled naps, and medications that stimulate alertness or suppress REM sleep.
Living with narcolepsy can be challenging, but understanding and managing the condition can allow individuals to lead fulfilling lives. The key is to seek medical attention if you’re experiencing excessive sleepiness or other symptoms associated with narcolepsy. (2)
