Currently, the known causes of narcolepsy are not entirely known. There is a tremendous amount of research being done throughout the world in order to further develop an understanding of the causes of narcolepsy. The current consensus between doctors is that a certain genetic make up accompanied by an environmental trigger causes a chemical imbalance in the brain which results in narcolepsy. Specifically, the chemical imbalance involves a decrease in the chemical controlling sleep regulation, hypocretin. This lack of hypocretin inhibits the body’s ability to fully control alertness and sleep tendencies. When the levels of hypocretin have fully depleted, a patient is diagnosed with narcolepsy. It is undetermined how long it takes for levels of hypocretin to fully deplete, but this time frame is currently the focus of most narcoleptic studies being conducted.

Narcolepsy still remains very new to the world of research and more information regarding its causes, treatment and prevention continue to unfold. To stay up to date on the latest developments in narcoleptic research visit NorthShore University HealthSystems department on neurosciences.

According to NorthShore University HealthSystem, “The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends that the diagnosis of narcolepsy be made with a polysomnogram followed by a Multiple Sleep Latency Test…The polysomnogram allows the sleep physician to rule out other disorders that may cause sleep attacks, such as sleep apnea or periodic limb movement disorder. The Multiple Sleep Latency Test looks for the presence of Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep during the day, which is abnormal. The test also quantifies the amount of daytime sleepiness. Abnormal test results, in addition to a clinical history, are used to make the proper diagnosis”. Narcolepsy diagnosis and treatment can vary, so it is best to consult with your physician.