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Sleep-wake

Narcolepsy

Irresistible sleep attacks during the day, often with cataplexy (sudden loss of muscle tone with intense emotions). It's a neurological disorder.

Common signs

Sleep attacks during the dayMuscle weakness when laughing or emotionalSleep paralysis or hallucinations when falling asleep

Tips

For you

  1. Diagnosis at a sleep clinic
  2. Scheduled naps
  3. Psychological support to adjust

For family and friends

  1. Respect their scheduled naps
  2. Don't let them drive if they have sleep attacks

When to ask for help

  1. See a sleep clinic
  2. If you fall asleep while driving, don't drive

Guidance test

Answer thinking about the last few weeks. There are 8 questions and you get your result straight away. Your answers are not saved or sent.

0 of 8
1. I get irresistibly sleepy during the day
2. I fall asleep in unexpected situations
3. When I laugh or feel emotional, my legs go weak
4. When falling asleep or waking up I can't move
5. I have very vivid images when falling asleep
6. I sleep badly at night
7. Short naps help me
8. This started a while ago and isn't getting better

Free resources

Downloadable PDF sheetSigns, tips and resources to print or saveSpanish Sleep Society: information for patientsFree external resourceAll our free guidesFree resource from Clínica Vivaldi

Related disorders

InsomniaSleep-wakeHypersomnolence disorderSleep-wakeObstructive sleep apnoeaSleep-wakeDisorder of the circadian rhythm of sleep-wakeSleep-wake

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Reviewed by María Teresa Fernández Vicente, health psychologist and neuropsychologist (registration no. CV17304), in November 2026. Educational information prepared by the Clínica Vivaldi team based on the DSM-5-TR classification. It does not replace a professional assessment and cannot be used to diagnose.