Frequently asked questions

Being diagnosed with narcolepsy can raise many issues and concerns. Below are answers to some of the questions commonly asked by patients. Simply click the question to reveal the answer.

• Is narcolepsy a psychological or mental disorder?

No. It is a neurological disease usually involving reduced numbers of nerve cells in the brain that contain a chemical crucial for controlling and maintaining  a normal sleep-wake cycle.

• Does narcolepsy affect learning and education?

If narcolepsy presents itself at an early age, it can impact severely on education and learning. In particular,the condition can affect concentration, attention span and memory as well as causing lost time through naps. However, there is no direct impact on intelligence.

Children with narcolepsy should be diagnosed as soon as possible so measures can be taken to ensure the condition has no detrimental effect on their education.

• Is cataplexy dangerous?

Generally no. Attacks usually take a couple of seconds to evolve and as patients are usually aware of the situations where they are likely to have an attack, it is unususal to be injured during an attack.

• If I am diagnosed, will I be able to drive?

In the UK, yes on the condition that you have a report from your specialist confirming symptom control is satisfactory. Most people living with narcolepsy are aware of when they will feel sleepy and take measures to not drive long distances and take planned naps.

People living with narcolepsy are under obligation by law to inform the DVLA of their condition.

The DVLA usually provide a temporary drivers licence which is then reviewed every few years on the condition that their GP is confident that their symptoms are being treated adequately.

If symptoms have been adequately controlled for 7 years, a long term licence is issued.

• What are the long term problems of narcolepsy?

Narcolepsy should be regarded as a life-long condition and has a potential impact on every aspect of daily living.

Patients that experience severe cataplexy attacks can often suppress their emotions or avoid emotional situations which can result in social problems.

Inability to work or decreased earning potential can have significant financial implications.

• What impact will it have on my job?

Narcolepsy can reduce chances of promotions, decrease earning potential and in severe cases lead to job loss.

• Is there a cure?

At present, there isn’t a cure for narcolepsy but there are several treatments and a well-being plan that are available to help manage the symptoms of narcolepsy.

In the last 7 years, major advances have been made in understanding the biology of narcolepsy producing significant hope for better treatments in the future.