Narcolepsy
Article Abstract:
Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder in which patients are excessively sleepy and show abnormalities of the REM (rapid-eye-movement) stage of sleep. The prevalence of narcolepsy in the United States is between 1 in 1,000 and 1 in 10,000, with no difference in frequency between the sexes. Narcolepsy is not associated with other diseases; it is not a type of epilepsy and it is not caused by psychiatric conditions. A gradual development of narcolepsy between the ages of 15 and 35 is most typical, but it can begin at other ages. The sleepiness of narcolepsy often manifests itself in sedentary, unstimulating activities, but it differs from normal sleepiness in that sleeping provides no relief. Another feature of narcolepsy in some patients is cataplexy, a sudden muscular weakness brought on without warning by laughter, emotion, or physical exercise. Attacks of cataplexy that are severe can result in complete paralysis, while mild attacks may cause the patient to sit down or drop an object; attacks usually last for less than one minute. Narcoleptics may also experience poor sleep at night, visual disturbances, memory lapses and hallucinations. The condition can have a major impact on the patient's life; 60 to 80 percent of patients have fallen asleep at work, while driving, or in both situations. Primary treatment is with drugs, which include stimulants, tricyclic antidepressants, and others. Some patients benefit from taking three or more naps of 15 to 20 minutes daily; this may increase alertness and offset disturbed nighttime sleep. Recent research findings that enhance the understanding of narcolepsy are reviewed. There is strong evidence that a susceptibility to narcolepsy is inherited; a specific gene on chromosome 6 has been implicated. Also, diagnostic criteria have recently been improved. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 1990
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
All-grrl schools
Article Abstract:
Women's Mountain Bike and Tea Society (WOMBATS) camps offer facilitated learning opportunities in a woman-only environment. The emphasis of teaching is on bike mechanics and bike-handling skills. Classes are small and personal to allow and encourage open communication.
Publication Name: Bicycling
Subject: Sports and fitness
ISSN: 0006-2073
Year: 1997
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
Venetian formula
Article Abstract:
Venice, Italy in the 18th century saw the end of its political power in the Western world. However, with its diminishing maritime influence came the flowering of its art, particularly in painting, which captured the elusive quality of the city's water-reflected light.
Publication Name: Vogue
Subject: Fashion and beauty
ISSN: 0042-8000
Year: 1995
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic: