Understanding Narcolepsy; Symptoms, Causes And Treatments

Excessive Daytime Sleepiness (EDS)

Excessive daytime sleepiness is one of the most common symptoms of sleep disorders, including narcolepsy, with approximately twenty percent of the population being affected by it. Those who deal with excessive daytime sleepiness feel sluggish and drowsy most days, which can impact their productiveness at work, school, activities, hobbies, or relationships.

Another symptom of excessive daytime sleepiness is an increased pressure to fall asleep throughout the day, which can be life-threatening when operating a vehicle or heavy machinery. Most patients are treated with positive pressure devices, though some other treatments such as medications, dental appliances, and surgery work on a case-to-case basis. It is best to consult a psychiatrist before attempting to treat excessive daytime sleepiness or narcolepsy.