Matt returns this week to unpack the complexities of narcolepsy, a neurological sleep disorder often misunderstood and misdiagnosed. He starts by defining narcolepsy, explaining its profound impact on brain and body functioning and its chronic nature, which often diminishes patients' quality of life. Narcolepsy affects about 1 in every 2,000 people, yet most go undiagnosed due to limited awareness and medical training on sleep disorders. With a closer look at the causes, Matt explores how the brain's sleep-wake regulator, orexin, malfunctions in those with narcolepsy, disrupting their sleep cycles and resulting in excessive daytime sleepiness and sleep "attacks."

Delving into symptoms, Matt highlights narcolepsy’s hallmark indicators, such as cataplexy—a sudden loss of muscle tone triggered by strong emotions—and frequent REM sleep disruptions that can lead to vivid hallucinations upon sleep onset. The episode covers diagnostic tools, from sleep studies to brain chemical tests, which help identify the condition. While there is currently no cure, Matt discusses various treatment options, from alertness-enhancing medications to emerging research and therapies. This episode calls for greater compassion and support for those with narcolepsy, emphasizing the importance of awareness and education in managing this life-altering disorder.

Please note that Matt is not a medical doctor, and none of the content in this podcast should be considered medical advice in any way, shape, or form, nor prescriptive in any way.

One of today’s sponsors, 23andMe, provides genetic insights into health and sleep, and Matt, who has used it for eight years to understand genetic risks, is impressed by their sleep-focused data. With details on chronotype—whether you’re genetically more inclined to be a morning person or night owl—along with insights on sleep quality, depth, and insomnia risk, 23andMe’s reports offer valuable understanding of your unique sleep patterns. Explore your sleep genetics at 23andMe.com/MattWalker for 10% off your service.

As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out to Matt on Instagram.

#84 - Sleep & Narcolepsy

The Matt Walker Podcast