Best Narcolepsy Doctors in Bangalore

Narcolepsy is a long-term neurological disorder that impacts the brain's capacity to manage the sleep-wake cycle. It can severely impact daily activities such as school, work, and social settings. Its causes are believed to be a mix of genetic and environmental factors. Hormonal changes during puberty or menopause, changes in sleep patterns, certain vaccines, and emotional stress are all potential triggers.

Narcolepsy is as much a reality in Bangalore as it is in any other part of the world. The city's residents occasionally experience this condition, marked by a sudden and overwhelming need to sleep during the day. Thankfully, Bangalore is home to some of the best narcolepsy treatment doctors who are managing this condition effectively.

Types/Stages of Narcolepsy

Understanding the types of narcolepsy is critical for effective diagnosis and treatment:

• Narcolepsy Type 1 (NT1): This type involves cataplexy, a sudden loss of muscle tone triggered by strong emotions. NT1 is characterised by low levels of hypocretin-1, a neurotransmitter that regulates wakefulness.

• Narcolepsy Type 2 (NT2): This does not involve cataplexy and typically has normal levels of hypocretin-1.

Symptoms of Narcolepsy

The symptoms of narcolepsy are as follows:

• Excessive Daytime Sleepiness (EDS)

• A sudden loss of muscle tone, leading to weakness or body collapse

• Vivid and often frightening hallucinations during sleep onset or upon waking

• Sleep Paralysis

• Disrupted Sleep

Tests to Diagnose Narcolepsy

A range of tests by narcolepsy treatment doctors can provide a definitive diagnosis:

• Sleep History: Detailed information about sleeping patterns and symptoms experienced.

• Physical Examination: A comprehensive physical check-up to rule out other conditions

• Polysomnogram (PSG): A sleep study that monitors brain waves, heart rate, and breathing during sleep

• Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT): Measures daytime sleep onset time and identifies irregular sleep patterns.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Narcolepsy at Apollo Hospitals, Bangalore

Apollo Hospitals in Bangalore offer integrated and personalised treatment options with the help of narcolepsy specialist doctors, including:

• Medications: Drugs like amphetamine stimulants are used to manage symptoms. Other pharmacologically different medications are also available.

• Behavioural Therapy: Narcolepsy doctors recommend lifestyle changes and therapies to manage sleep patterns and improve overall sleep quality.

• Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulator: A surgical option recommended by a sleep specialist for certain conditions related to narcolepsy.

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I): This therapy helps patients identify and change negative sleep-related thoughts and behaviours, thus improving sleep quality.

At Apollo Hospitals, Bangalore, the best narcolepsy specialist doctors are dedicated to your well-being.