low levels of hypocretin, a hormone that helps suppress sleep and promote wakefulness.episodes of cataplexy happening a few times a month.To determine whether you have narcolepsy, your sleep specialist will also want to know if at least one of the following symptoms is present: According to the DSM-5, these symptoms must occur at least 3 times a week in the last 3 months. vivid or frightening dreams (typically in children)įrequency is also important for a diagnosis.sudden loss of muscle control while awake usually caused by strong emotions (cataplexy).occasional episodes when you suddenly stop talking or performing an activity.
#Cataplexy in hands manual
But they may be able to refer you to a sleep specialist in your area.īefore performing any tests, a sleep professional will want to explore the symptoms of narcolepsy established by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5). Qualified sleep professionals you might want to reach out to include sleep medicine and neurology specialists, particularly those who specialize in hypersomnia.Ī primary care physician may not be equipped to perform the necessary tests to diagnose narcolepsy. The rest of the physical exam may include a neurological examination, which can help rule out other conditions that could be causing your sleepiness symptoms such as obstructive sleep apnea. It’ll measure how much you move during the day because it’s based on the idea that you won’t move as much when you’re sleeping. This is done with a small device worn on the wrist for a week or longer. Sometimes, a sleep medicine expert may also recommend an actigraphy test to monitor your sleep and wake cycles. In your journal, you’ll note your symptoms and details about your sleep episodes.
Hypersomnia means excessive sleepiness or excessive time spent sleeping.ĭuring your visit with a sleep medicine expert, they might ask you to keep a sleep journal and log for 2 weeks. Diagnosing narcolepsy typically starts with a detailed medical history and a physical exam conducted by a sleep professional or a neurologist who specializes in hypersomnia.
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