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A rare neurological condition

Narcolepsy is a rare neurological condition that affects the brain’s ability to regulate the normal sleep-wake cycle. This can lead to symptoms such as disturbed night-time sleep, excessive daytime sleepiness and cataplexy. Consequently, narcolepsy is often thought of as a sleep disorder, but its underlying cause means that it is better classified as a disorder of the central nervous system.

30,000 sufferers in the UK

Narcolepsy is estimated to affect about 1 person in 2,500. That means that in the UK there are approximately 30,000 people who have narcolepsy, though it is believed that the majority have not been diagnosed.

Effects on daily life

Narcolepsy can have an effect on almost all aspects of daily life, including educationemploymentdriving and also relationships and emotional health. Although there is at present no cure for narcolepsy, effective medication and other strategies can help to manage the symptoms and enable people with narcolepsy to lead as full a life as possible.

Learn more and find help

Please use the resources on this site to help you understand what narcolepsy is, how it is treated, and the effects it has on the lives of those who develop the condition. Here you will also find advice about managing the condition and practical information that will help you, whether you are person who has narcolepsy, or you know someone who has narcolepsy, or you are a healthcare professional involved in the treatment of someone with narcolepsy.