Narcolepsy is a condition that is caused by an imbalance in the body's sleep and wake cycles. The condition can cause a person to feel restless, tired, and exhausted for most of the day. If you suspect that you might have this disorder, consult Dr. Richard Bogan and Dr. Laura Herpel of Bogan Sleep Consultants in Columbia, SC.

Symptoms of This Sleep Disorder

If you're tired and have trouble focusing on tasks, you may be experiencing symptoms of excessive sleepiness. It is a common condition that causes excessive daytime sleepiness. The symptoms are typically triggered by intense emotions and occur in people of all ages, even children.

Often, you'll be able to determine if you're experiencing persistent sleepiness by taking a Multiple Sleep Latency Test. This test measures your sleep pattern during four to five naps of 20 minutes each. 

Using this test, your doctor can evaluate how much REM sleep you're getting and how long it takes you to rest during your naps.

Risk Factors of Excessive Sleepiness

Although narcolepsy in Columbia, SC, is a lifelong condition, it can be treated by Bogan Sleep Consultants. 

If you experience this sleep disorder, you must be aware of the risks involved. People with this disorder are at a higher risk of accidents. If you are driving or operating heavy machinery, you can become sleepy and lose focus, increasing your chances of getting into an accident.

There are also other risks. For example, in some cases, excessive sleepiness can cause people to act out while dreaming. This can be a frightening experience.

Often, people with persistent sleepiness feel ashamed of having the disease. As a result, they usually avoid discussing the problem. In addition, it can interfere with family relationships leading to social withdrawal and contributing to other mental health disorders.

Complications of Persistent Sleepiness

This is a disease that is caused by abnormal sleep. It is a chronic sleep disorder that affects 3 million people worldwide. It usually begins between 7 and 25 years of age. There is no known cure. However, medicines may help reduce the symptoms.

Some of the most common symptoms of this sleep disorder include excessive daytime sleepiness and hallucinations. These can interfere with work, school, and relationships. 

Getting regular checkups can also be helpful. If your doctor believes you need medication, you will be prescribed a specific medicine. You should take medicine daily as a capsule or tablet. The dosage will vary depending on your physician's advice.

Call Bogan Sleep Consultants at (803) 251-3093 to get narcolepsy treatment in Columbia, SC, with Dr. Bogan and Dr. Herpel.