Narcolepsy is a rare neurological sleep disorder that manifests as excessive daytime sleepiness and irresistible sleep attacks, sometimes associated with cataplexy (a sudden loss of muscle tone triggered by an emotion). Its diagnosis is based on a sleep recording (polysomnography) followed by the Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT). At the Sleep Clinic in Yutz, near Thionville, we carry out this specialized assessment and provide personalized follow-up.
Key figures
Narcolepsy affects about 0.02 to 0.05% of the population
It most often begins in adolescence or young adulthood
The diagnosis is often made several years late
An appropriate diagnosis and follow-up markedly improve quality of life
Symptoms
Excessive, daily daytime sleepiness
Irresistible sleep attacks, even during active tasks
Cataplexy: sudden loss of muscle tone during an emotion
Sleep paralysis when falling asleep or waking up
Hallucinations when falling asleep (hypnagogic)
Fragmented nighttime sleep despite the sleepiness
Treatments
1
Behavioral measures: short scheduled naps, a regular sleep schedule2
Wake-promoting treatments on specialist prescription3
Specific management of cataplexy4
Suitable school or workplace accommodations5
Regular follow-up by a sleep physicianWhen to consult ?
If you experience severe daily sleepiness, uncontrollable episodes of falling asleep, or episodes of muscle weakness triggered by emotion. A specialized assessment at the Yutz sleep center, accessible from Thionville, Metz and Luxembourg, makes it possible to establish the diagnosis.
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