People with untreated narcolepsy suffer chronic sleepiness. No matter how much rest they get at night, narcoleptics struggle the next day against sudden sleep attacks, temporary paralysis and even hallucinations. The episodes can last from a few seconds to more than half an hour.
Experts say that narcolepsy is as common as multiple sclerosis.
A quarter of a million Americans have the chronic disorder. Medication can ease many of the symptoms of narcolepsy, but the social and emotional damage is harder to heal. Researchers are studying new ways to treat narcolepsy. Kris is a teacher who has narcolepsy. Living with Narcolepsy Stories from the front lines of this disabling disease.