Narcolepsy and hypersomnia

Do you feel very sleepy during the day, even after a full night in bed? Strong daytime sleepiness has many causes. Narcolepsy is a long-term brain condition that affects how your brain controls sleep and waking. Hypersomnia means being too sleepy for other reasons. At Universal Sleep Solutions in Leander, Texas, Dr. Minal Patel finds the cause and treats it.

What are the signs?

• Strong daytime sleepiness — the main sign. You may fall asleep at work, in class or while driving.
• Cataplexy — your muscles suddenly go weak when you laugh, feel surprised or get angry.
• Sleep paralysis — for a short time, you can't move as you fall asleep or wake up.
• Dream-like images — vivid things you see or hear as you fall asleep.
• Broken sleep — waking up often during the night.

If you feel very sleepy, don't drive until you have talked with a doctor.

How do we find the cause?

1. Visit — Dr. Patel asks about your sleep, your symptoms, your health and your medicines.
2. Sleep diary — You may be asked to keep track of your sleep before testing.
3. Overnight sleep study — A night in our sleep lab checks for other problems, such as sleep apnea.
4. MSLT — The next day, a daytime nap test shows how fast you fall asleep and if you go into dream sleep quickly.

How is it treated?

• Wake-promoting medicines — help you stay awake and alert.
• Medicines for cataplexy and night sleep — such as sodium oxybate.
• Planned naps — short naps at the right times.
• Sleep schedule — going to bed and waking at the same times, and avoiding alcohol.

Learn more in narcolepsy symptoms and diagnosis.

How do you get started?

• Pre-register online — Fill out the secure form on our patient portal. We will contact you to set up your visit.
• Ask your doctor — Your doctor can fax a referral to (877) 569-2885.
• Call us — Have questions first? Call (512) 931-1575, Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.