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Narcolepsy is a chronic sleep disorder causing overwhelming daytime sleepiness, sleep attacks and sometimes cataplexy — caused by hypocretin deficiency.
Quick Answer
Narcolepsy is a chronic sleep disorder causing overwhelming daytime sleepiness, sleep attacks and sometimes cataplexy — caused by hypocretin deficiency. Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav (NMC 8029, 15+ years of clinical experience) evaluates narcolepsy at Kathmandu Neurology Clinic & Cognitive Center, 117 Lal Durbar Marg, Kathmandu, Bagmati Province 44600, Nepal — evidence-based, medically reviewed.
Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder of sleep-wake regulation caused by loss of hypocretin (orexin) neurons. It causes excessive daytime sleepiness with irresistible sleep attacks, disrupted nighttime sleep, and in ~70% of cases, cataplexy (sudden muscle weakness triggered by emotion).
Overnight polysomnography + Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT)|CSF hypocretin-1 measurement (Type 1)|HLA typing
Stimulants (modafinil, armodafinil, methylphenidate) for sleepiness|Sodium oxybate for cataplexy|Antidepressants for cataplexy|Scheduled naps|Sleep hygiene|Safety precautions for driving
Management is individualized and discussed with benefits, limitations, and follow-up.
Consistent sleep schedule|Avoid alcohol and sedatives|Regular scheduled naps|Safety precautions (driving, operating machinery)
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Reviewed by Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav • Last reviewed: 2026-11-10
Content is educational and aligns with standard medical references; individual evaluation may vary. External links provide context and do not imply endorsement.
Doctor — medically reviewed
Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav
Consultant Neurologist & Headache Specialist • MBBS, MD (Internal Medicine), FICN (Neurology), FCNV, FIHM • NMC 8029
This condition guide was medically reviewed by Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav.
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