NPC is a rare genetic disorder that causes an inability to transport lipids (like cholesterol) to cells, causing them to accumulate in body tissues. While cataplexy is often associated with narcolepsy, the Sleep Foundation points out that “30% of cataplexy episodes are related to other disorders.” For starters, individuals with Niemann-Pick type C disease (NPC) may experience cataplexy along with cognitive impairment and dementia. Some theorize that narcolepsy is an autoimmune disorder but the source notes that more research is still needed. However, the source also notes that “a loss of neurons that produce hypocretin (also known as orexin) is thought to be a major contributing factor.” Hypocretin is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in wakefulness in the sleep/wake cycle.Īnother theory suggests that individuals with cataplexy have a specific human leukocyte antigen, variations in T-cells receptors, or dysfunctional immune system responses to antigen exposures. While we know that cataplectic attacks are triggered by emotions, what causes cataplexy to develop in the first place is unknown, explains Medical News Today. After diagnosing the condition, your doctor can help you come up with a treatment plan and ways to help you manage your condition. This is why it’s so important to get a proper diagnosis if you notice symptoms of cataplexy. You can also be put in harm’s way if the attack occurs while you’re cooking, using knives, or using other sharp objects. This can put your health at risk, especially if you’re driving a car or operating machinery. However, if you notice anyone displaying these symptoms, it’s vital that you make sure they don’t hurt themselves if they collapse.Ī cataplectic attack can happen without warning. After the attack, normal muscle function returns. The source says common symptoms of a cataplectic episode may include:Īttacks are usually short, lasting about a few seconds up to 2-minutes. Some individuals may experience barely noticeable symptoms while others experience a full body collapse. The source points out that individuals with type 1 narcolepsy often start experiencing episodes of cataplexy after the onset of excessive sleepiness.Īccording to Medical News Today, cataplectic attacks can vary from mild to severe. Individuals with type 1 can experience episodes of cataplexy whereas individuals with type 2 don’t. The Sleep Foundation explains that there are two major types of narcolepsy, including type 1 and type 2. Sufferers can also experience hallucinations and in some cases, cataplexy. Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness and sleep paralysis. Narcolepsy: What’s the Difference?Ĭataplexy is often associated with narcolepsy but they are not the same thing. Medical News Today explains that cataplexy is a “sudden loss of muscle control.” It usually affects both sides of the body and can be triggered by strong emotions.Ĭataplexy is often associated with narcolepsy (a chronic sleep disorder), however, it can also happen with other rare disorders, such as Wilson’s disease, Niemann-Pick type C disease, and Prader-Willi syndrome, explains the source.Ĭataplexy vs. Follow along as we uncover everything you need to know about cataplexy, including the common symptoms, causes, and treatment options. But there’s a lot more to know about this brain disorder. This can put the individual at serious risk, especially if the attack happens while they’re driving. It’s commonly associated with narcolepsy, a sleep disorder, that affects around 135,000 to 200,000 people in the U.S.ĭuring a mild episode, the individual may experience muscle weakness in one body part such as drooping of the eyelids, however, a more severe episode may cause a total body collapse. Although rare, cataplexy is a very serious brain disorder that causes sudden and temporary loss of muscle tone and control.
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