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Explanation of the Narcolepsy features?

3K views 2 replies 2 participants last post by  kemoo 
#1 ·
what difference between

sleep attack

sleep paralysis

cataplexy


all of them presenting symptoms of narcolepsy
 
#2 ·
The Narcoleptic Tetrad includes the following-

1) Sleep attacks and excessive daytime sleepiness
(Sleep attacks are when you just fall asleep and go straight into REM sleep) This can be seen in narcoleptic patient as they would seem like they fainted but really they just fall asleep and if you notice their eyes; they will have the presentation of REM sleep: rapid eye movements)

2) Cataplexy (this is the pathognomonic sign) - a sudden and transient episode of loss of muscle tone, often triggered by emotions. Do not confuse this with epilepsy, in which a series of flashes or other stimuli can cause superficially similar seizures.

3) Hypnagogic hallucnations (while falling asleep)
(hypnopompic - while waking up, these hallucations may occur but are not pathognomonic)

4) Sleep Paralysis: This is when you fall asleep and are paralyzed. Normally, you dont use your muscles when you're sleeping but this is dangerous and possibly fatal when it comes Respiratory Muscle Paralysis.

Deficiency in hypocretin protein transport (orexin)
Treatment with Modafinil

Sources - KLN and Wiki
 
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