Narcolepsy and other causes of excessive daytime sleepiness.
Narcolepsy is a chronic disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness, cataplexy, and other auxiliary symptoms. An interview can ascertain specific symptomatology, whereas a polysomnogram can reveal distinct clinical features. The clinical and laboratory evaluation together enable an accurate diagnosis of narcolepsy. This diagnosis includes a wide spectrum of symptom combinations. Treatment of narcolepsy should include the empathic guidance of a sleep clinician, an emphasis on sleep hygiene, and in many cases pharmacotherapy.
Sleep Disorders and Research Center, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, Michigan 48202, USA.
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Gerhardstein
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Rosenthal
D002940:Circadian Rhythm; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006970:Disorders of Excessive Somnolence / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D009290:Narcolepsy / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy