Psychology 101
Research Paper-Narcolepsy
Dawn Farr
Dawn Farr
October 6th, 2014
Psychology 101
Abstract- Narcolepsy
The purpose of this research is to gather helpful information about the disorder called Narcolepsy, which is a neurological disorder that affects the control of sleep and awareness. I will analyze several situations of people living with Narcolepsy to compare similarities and difference of these people. The research will have information about the causes, symptoms, and diagnostics. It will also cover people who have it and how they deal with it, age range and how it affects each age differently, and living with the disorder. The information researched will give you insight on how the body and …show more content…
There is no cure for narcolepsy and it is often believed to be depression, epilepsy, and sleep deprivation. This disorder is rare and has so many symptoms that are very similar to other illnesses. It is very hard to diagnosis a person with this disorder. Since their is currently no cure for Narcolepsy, a person living with this can do some things to help control the sleepiness. A person with this disorder can take medicines, make some changes to their lifestyle, and therapy can relieve many of the symptoms. Treatment for narcolepsy is based on the types of symptoms you have and how severe they are. A person with the disorder will have to try out a few things to see which treatment and lifestyle changes work best for them. Not all medicines and lifestyle changes work for everyone. It may take weeks to months for a person and the doctor to find the best …show more content…
Doctor Norwood (2014), The third test that a doctor could do to test for Narcolepsy is called Hypocretin test. This test measures the level of hypocretin in the fluid that surrounds your spinal cord. Most people who have narcolepsy have low levels of hypocretin. Hypocretin is a chemical that helps promote wakefulness. To get a sample of spinal cord fluid, a spinal tap is done which is where the doctor inserts a needle into your lower back area and then withdraws a sample of your spinal fluid.” (p.1) Narcoleptics have problems in school, holding down a job and they are accident-prone. According to Dr. Mignot, “there are several interventions that should be used such as sleep and napping hygiene which is taking regular naps at certain times and having a set time to rest each night. Another intervention is the kinds of drugs the patient is taking. The patient should always consult with a doctor before taking any medication because they could worsen the symptoms.” (p.1). It is always best to consult with a doctor before doing anything different that may have an effect on your body. Eating healthier and the right amount of food each