There are 4 basic characteristics of Narcolepsy. EDS-excessive daytime sleepiness, is the main characteristic of this disorder. EDS is the overwhelming urge to sleep off and on throughout the day. It is an urge so strong that the narcoleptic Must go to sleep. This can happen at anytime, even when it would be otherwise inappropriate, such as, at meetings, while driving, at work, or at dinner.
Narcolepsy occurs in both men and women at any age.
Usually, however, symptoms are first noticed in teenagers and persons in their 20's and 30's. Strong evidence shows that this disorder may run in families. Although it is estimated that narcolepsy afflicts as many as 200,000 Americans, fewer than 50,000 are diagnosed. It is as widespread as Parkinson's Disease or Multiple Sclerosis and more prevalent than Cystic Fibrosis, but it is less well known. Narcolepsy is often mistaken for depression, epilepsy, or the side effects of medications.