Instantaneous cataplexy attacks can
be very dangerous, and death and near-death incidences
have been reported. Hypnagogic hallucinations are
intense and vivid experiences that occur at the beginning
or end of a sleep period. Any or all of the normal
senses can be involved, and the experience is difficult
to differentiate from reality. The experiences can
be rather terrifying at times. Automatic behaviour
refers to doing usually routine things with greatly
reduced awareness of it, and reduced control over
the activities involved. Generally, the affected individual
is unable to recall specific details of the activities
and usually regards the periods of time involved as
blackouts. Disrupted nighttime sleep refers to the
multiple awakenings during a night's sleep. The cause
for this may be frightening dreams, the need to relieve
one's bladder, or temporary suspensions in breathing,
which is also sleep apnea. Awakenings can also be
without a cause, and often, they are accompanied by
a craving for something to eat.
The effects of narcolepsy are many and far-reaching.
Sleep attacks and cataplexy in public can be embarrassing
and may cause serious social and economic difficulties,
and even lead to psychological problems.
Foreword
