During my high school days, I recall a classmate and a friend of mine who suffered from something I termed as “unique”. The guy made our East block quite popular. Let’s call him Mr. X.
So Mr. X would fall asleep anywhere. On a queue, class, dining hall, name it. He was often a target of mockery and punishment. I recall one Biology lesson where the teacher had him raise his legs on the board and hands on the floor. I am looking for the position, to be specific, but it’s quite funny. So the teacher found it disrespectful that the guy was dozing off in his class.
Mr. X would fall asleep anywhere. On a queue, class, dining hall, name it. He was often a target of mockery and punishment.
Funny enough, Mr. X was full of innocence, It didn’t seem to bother him. Not only was he an academic battalion but also a prayer warrior. I wondered why God would allow his son to suffer, yet he was not guilty. His situation intrigued my compassion as I strived to understand him. In the same way, my curiosity was intrigued. What is this condition?
What is Narcolepsy?
Narcolepsy is a chronic neurological disorder caused by the brain’s inability to regulate sleep-wake cycles normally. This sleep disorder causes drowsiness, especially during the day. People with narcolepsy find it hard to stay awake for long periods of time ; falling asleep suddenly. This can cause serious problems in their daily routine.
I wondered why God would allow his son to suffer, yet he was not guilty. His situation intrigued my compassion as I strived to understand him. In the same way, my curiosity was intrigued.
If the urge becomes overwhelming, individuals will fall asleep for periods lasting from a few seconds to several minutes. In some cases, people may remain asleep for an hour or longer. Irrespective of sleeping sufficiently at the night : its characteristics include excessive sleepiness during the day and sudden muscle weakness.
According to the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD), narcolepsy affects approximately 1 in 2000 people worldwide. However, the condition often takes years to be diagnosed and is believed to remain undiagnosed or misdiagnosed in many cases.
In Kenya, The prevalence rate of Narcolepsy is not well documented, leading to misdiagnosed or rather undiagnosed.
The Narcolepsy Africa Foundation was created by a group of Kenyans living with narcolepsy with an aim of creating awareness around people living with the condition in Kenya and across Africa. Their motto “Bridging the Gap” has indeed played an important role in spreading information and beating misconceptions. Narcolepsy is typically termed as a “mzungu” (white people) condition, or rather the victims are portrayed to be cursed.
What are the common symptoms of Narcolepsy ?
- Excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS): This is the most prominent symptom, causing an overwhelming urge to sleep during the day.
- Cataplexy: Sudden loss of muscle tone, often triggered by strong emotions such as laughter or anger, leading to weakness or collapse.
- Sleep paralysis: A temporary inability to move or speak while falling asleep or waking up.
- Hallucinations: Vivid and sometimes frightening visual or auditory sensations that occur while falling asleep or waking up.
- Disrupted nighttime sleep: Frequent awakenings during the night, leading to poor sleep quality.
Treatment
Narcolepsy is rather managed than treated. According to the Narcolepsy Africa Foundation ; the goal is to reduce Excessive Daytime Sleepiness (EDS).
Narcolepsy is managed with an in corporation of medication and Lifestyle changes. Administration of stimulants and antidepressants are commonly used. Also scheduling daytime naps, having sleep hygiene – maintaining a regular sleeping routine : Diet and Exercise and most importantly Therapy and Support groups for the patients.
The Nairobi Sleep Disorder and Treatment Center states that, often victims unexpectedly fall asleep in the middle of important activities; driving playing sports etc. This can be quite dangerous for themselves and others. In addition, they can fall asleep during conversations and at work, harming their personal and professional relationships (Source :STDC- Nairobi)
World Narcolepsy day is commemorated on September 22nd annually. It is represented with a black ribbon. The day aims of spreading awareness as well as create a safe community for patients living with narcolepsy globally.
Thanks for sharing this Frankline. I once wrote an article to shed light on narcolepsy, here’s the link: [ https://www.panachehq.com/blog/2024/03/10/unraveling-the-mysteries-of-narcolepsy/ ]
I believe this still needs advocacy and awareness. Narcolepsy is a chronic neurological disorder shrouded in mystery, disrupting the delicate balance of sleep and wakefulness.
It’s a lifelong condition where the brain struggles to regulate sleep-wake cycles effectively. People with narcolepsy experience disruptions, leading to sudden and uncontrollable sleep episodes during the day, blurring the lines between sleep and wakefulness.
I can recall it presents in two primary forms. Type 1 Narcolepsy is often associated with cataplexy, a sudden loss of muscle tone, along with symptoms like fragmented sleep, sleep paralysis, and hallucinations. Type 2 Narcolepsy lacks cataplexy but includes excessive daytime sleepiness without muscle weakness.
Understanding and managing narcolepsy’s challenges can greatly improve the quality of life for those affected. Your article is a vital contribution to this cause, emphasizing the need for continued advocacy to make narcolepsy more known and understood. Keep up the great work in raising awareness!
Thank you Carson. It’s an issue we have to delve deeper : to educate people on Narcolepsy.
I agree, it’s quite an eye-opener! More awareness please.
This is an eye opening 💫
Thank you 👍
Eye opening and informative. Thanks Keya.
Thank you Jesse