What is Narcolepsy?
[[Image:Narcoleptic Minute 006 0001.jpg|frame|A narcoleptic [[teenager]] waiting for cataplexy to pass]] '''Narcolepsy''' is a [[sleep disorder]]. It happens when the [[nervous system]] does not work properly or if there is a hormonal imbalance. Mental health issues like [[Depression (mental illness)|depression]] and ADHD, and drug use can cause narcolepsy. This condition is categorised as excessive daytime sleepiness. Very often, a person with the condition does not sleep well at night, and during the day they fall asleep uncontrollably. Narcolepsy affects the way the nerves work. It is not a [[mental illness]], or caused by psychological problems[<sup>source?</sup>]. It is estimated that between 25 and 50 people, per 100,000 suffer from narcolepsy. Very few cases are reported. The first description was given in 1877. [[Jean-Baptiste Gélineau]], a military doctor, first used the name narcolepsy in 1880. In certain countries, people diagnosed with narcolepsy may not drive a car. == Forms of narcolepsy == There are two different forms of narcolepsy. There is NT1 which frequently involves [[cataplexy]], the sudden and brief loss of muscle tone, where the individual becomes [[Unconsciousness|unconscious]]. This can be triggered by strong emotions like laughter, anger, and surprise. NT2 shares many symptoms with NT1 however does not involve cataplexy. == Symptoms == Things that people with narcolepsy may experience: * [[Excessive Daytime Sleepiness]]: Being very tired during the day even after a full night of sleep. This is the most common symptom of narcolepsy. * [[Cataplexy]]: Suddenly having a muscle fail them. This can range from a slight weakness, and problems speaking clearly, to completely collapsing. * [[Sleep paralysis]]: When waking up, people are paralysed (unable to move) for a certain time. The paralysis eventually goes away. * [[Hallucination]]s, while falling asleep or waking up. *[[Automatic behaviour]]: People continue doing things while they are asleep. Later on they do not reme