Narcolepsy is a peculiar sleep disorder, characterized by severe and persistent daytime sleepiness that is associated with functional impairments, accidents and injuries. It is a disorder that disrupts the sleep-wake process, as the brain is unable to properly regulate wakefulness and sleep.
Symptoms of narcolepsy include excessive daytime sleepiness, disrupted nighttime sleep, sleep paralysis, sleep related hallucinations and cataplexy. This is a sudden loss of muscle control, often in response to positive emotions such as laughter or joy.
Recently, it was discovered that a certain type of narcolepsy (Type I) is marked by the loss of neurons responsible for making hypocretin, also known as orexin, a chemical that helps regulate wakefulness and sleep. This may lead to novel therapeutics in the future. Fortunately, several medications are already available to treat many people who suffer with narcolepsy.
Wayne Macfadden MD has over 20 years of experience as a Psychiatrist, and is Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Macfadden is a Fellow in the Philadelphia College of Physicians, and a former Fellow in the American College of Psychiatrists. Dr. Macfadden is also certified in Addiction Medicine by the American Board of Preventive Medicine and had Added Qualifications in Addiction Psychiatry. Dr. Wayne Macfadden has extensive clinical and research experience in the treatment of people with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders. Dr. Macfadden has worked in a variety of treatment, academic and research settings.
