Definition

Narcolepsy is a disorder marked by excessive daytime
sleepiness, uncontrollable sleep attacks, and cataplexy
(a sudden loss of muscle tone, usually lasting up to
half an hour).

Description

Narcolepsy is the second-leading cause of excessive
daytime sleepiness (after obstructive sleep apnea). Persistent sleepiness and sleep attacks are the hallmarks of
this condition. The sleepiness has been compared to the
feeling of trying to stay awake after not sleeping for two
or three days.

People with narcolepsy fall asleep suddenly