🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 75 (from laksa116)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa075.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/narcolepsy/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/narcolepsy/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/narcolepsy\/","crawl_time":1775392675,"first_indexed_time":1510390457,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"uk,nhs,www!\/conditions\/narcolepsy\/ s443","src_root_hash":"11359509702434384875","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Narcolepsy - NHS","meta_descriptions":["Read about narcolepsy, including the symptoms, causes, and how it's diagnosed and treated."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Narcolepsy is a rare long-term brain condition that can prevent a person from choosing when to wake or sleep.\nThe brain is unable to regulate sleeping and waking patterns normally, which can result in:\nexcessive daytime sleepiness – feeling very drowsy throughout the day and finding it difficult to concentrate and stay awake\nsleep attacks – falling asleep suddenly and without warning\ncataplexy – temporary loss of muscle control resulting in weakness and possible collapse, often in response to emotions such as laughter and anger\nsleep paralysis\n – a temporary inability to move or speak when waking up or falling asleep\nexcessive dreaming and waking in the night – dreams often come as you fall asleep (hypnogogic hallucinations) or just before or during waking (hypnopompic hallucinations)\nNarcolepsy does not cause serious or long-term physical health problems, but it can have a significant impact on daily life and be difficult to cope with emotionally.\nIn an attempt to avoid attacks, some people may become emotionally withdrawn and socially isolated.\nFind out more about the\nsymptoms of narcolepsy\n.\nWhat causes narcolepsy\nNarcolepsy is often caused by a lack of the brain chemical hypocretin (also known as orexin), which regulates wakefulness.\nThe lack of hypocretin is thought to be caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking the cells that produce it or the receptors that allow it to work.\nBut this does not explain all cases of narcolepsy, and the exact cause of the problem is often unclear.\nThings that have been suggested as possible triggers of narcolepsy include:\nhormonal changes, which can occur during puberty or the\nmenopause\nmajor psychological stress\nan infection, such as \nswine flu\n, or the medicine used to vaccinate against it (Pandemrix)\nFind out more about the\ncauses of narcolepsy\n.\nWho's affected\nIt's difficult to know exactly how many people have narcolepsy because many cases are thought to go unreported.\nBut it's estimated to affect about 30,000 people in the UK.\nMen and women are thought to be affected equally by narcolepsy, although some studies have suggested the condition may be more common in men.\nThe symptoms of narcolepsy often begin during adolescence, although it's usually diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40.\nDiagnosing narcolepsy\nSee a GP if you think you may have narcolepsy. They may ask about your sleeping habits and any other symptoms you have.\nThey may also carry out tests to help rule out other conditions that could be causing your excessive daytime sleepiness, such as \nsleep apnoea\n,\nrestless legs\nin bed and kicking during sleep, or an\nunderactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism)\n.\nIf necessary, you'll be referred to a specialist in sleep disorders, who'll analyse your sleep patterns.\nThis will usually involve staying overnight in a specialist sleep centre so various aspects of your sleep can be monitored.\nFind out more about\ndiagnosing narcolepsy\n.\nTreating narcolepsy\nThere's currently no cure for narcolepsy, but making changes to improve your sleeping habits and taking medicine can help minimise the impact the condition has on your daily life.\nTaking frequent, brief naps evenly spaced throughout the day is one of the best ways to manage excessive daytime drowsiness.\nThis may be difficult when you're at work or school, but a GP or specialist may be able to devise a sleep schedule that will help you get into a routine of taking naps.\nKeeping to a strict bedtime routine can also help, so you should go to bed at the same time each night whenever possible.\nIf your symptoms are particularly troublesome, you may be prescribed medicine that can help reduce daytime sleepiness, prevent cataplexy attacks and improve your sleep at night.\nThese medicines are usually taken as daily tablets, capsules or drinkable solutions.\nFind out more about\ntreating narcolepsy\n.\nNarcolepsy and driving\nIf you're diagnosed with narcolepsy, it may affect your ability to drive.\nStop driving immediately and inform the\nDriver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)\n.\nYou'll need to complete a medical questionnaire so your individual circumstances can be assessed.\nYou'll usually be allowed to drive again if your narcolepsy is well controlled and you have regular reviews to assess your condition.\nNarcolepsy UK's information about driving and narcolepsy\nTell the DVLA about your condition at GOV.UK: Narcolepsy and driving\nPage last reviewed: 30 December 2022\nNext review due: 30 December 2025","attrs_markdown":"\n\n[Skip to main content](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/narcolepsy\/#maincontent)\n\n- [Health A to Z](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/health-a-to-z\/)\n- [NHS services](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/nhs-services\/)\n- [Healthy living](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/live-well\/)\n- [Mental health](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/mental-health\/)\n- [Care and support](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/social-care-and-support\/)\n- [Home](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/)\n- Browse More\n\n1. [Home](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/)\n2. [Health A to Z](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/health-a-to-z\/)\n3. [Conditions A to Z](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/)\n\n[Back to Conditions A to Z](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/)\n\n# Overview   -  Narcolepsy\n## Contents\n1. Overview\n2. [Symptoms](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/narcolepsy\/symptoms\/)\n3. [Causes](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/narcolepsy\/causes\/)\n4. [Diagnosis](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/narcolepsy\/diagnosis\/)\n5. [Treatment](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/narcolepsy\/treatment\/)\n\n**Narcolepsy is a rare long-term brain condition that can prevent a person from choosing when to wake or sleep.**\n\nThe brain is unable to regulate sleeping and waking patterns normally, which can result in:\n\n- excessive daytime sleepiness – feeling very drowsy throughout the day and finding it difficult to concentrate and stay awake\n- sleep attacks – falling asleep suddenly and without warning\n- cataplexy – temporary loss of muscle control resulting in weakness and possible collapse, often in response to emotions such as laughter and anger\n- [sleep paralysis](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/sleep-paralysis\/) – a temporary inability to move or speak when waking up or falling asleep\n- excessive dreaming and waking in the night – dreams often come as you fall asleep (hypnogogic hallucinations) or just before or during waking (hypnopompic hallucinations)\n\nNarcolepsy does not cause serious or long-term physical health problems, but it can have a significant impact on daily life and be difficult to cope with emotionally.\n\nIn an attempt to avoid attacks, some people may become emotionally withdrawn and socially isolated.\n\nFind out more about the [symptoms of narcolepsy](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/narcolepsy\/symptoms\/).\n\n## What causes narcolepsy\nNarcolepsy is often caused by a lack of the brain chemical hypocretin (also known as orexin), which regulates wakefulness.\n\nThe lack of hypocretin is thought to be caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking the cells that produce it or the receptors that allow it to work.\n\nBut this does not explain all cases of narcolepsy, and the exact cause of the problem is often unclear.\n\nThings that have been suggested as possible triggers of narcolepsy include:\n\n- hormonal changes, which can occur during puberty or the [menopause](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/menopause\/)\n- major psychological stress\n- an infection, such as [swine flu](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/swine-flu\/), or the medicine used to vaccinate against it (Pandemrix)\n\nFind out more about the [causes of narcolepsy](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/narcolepsy\/causes\/).\n\n## Who's affected\nIt's difficult to know exactly how many people have narcolepsy because many cases are thought to go unreported.\n\nBut it's estimated to affect about 30,000 people in the UK.\n\nMen and women are thought to be affected equally by narcolepsy, although some studies have suggested the condition may be more common in men.\n\nThe symptoms of narcolepsy often begin during adolescence, although it's usually diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40.\n\n## Diagnosing narcolepsy\nSee a GP if you think you may have narcolepsy. They may ask about your sleeping habits and any other symptoms you have.\n\nThey may also carry out tests to help rule out other conditions that could be causing your excessive daytime sleepiness, such as [sleep apnoea](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/sleep-apnoea\/), [restless legs](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/restless-legs-syndrome\/) in bed and kicking during sleep, or an [underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism)](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/underactive-thyroid-hypothyroidism\/).\n\nIf necessary, you'll be referred to a specialist in sleep disorders, who'll analyse your sleep patterns.\n\nThis will usually involve staying overnight in a specialist sleep centre so various aspects of your sleep can be monitored.\n\nFind out more about [diagnosing narcolepsy](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/narcolepsy\/diagnosis\/).\n\n## Treating narcolepsy\nThere's currently no cure for narcolepsy, but making changes to improve your sleeping habits and taking medicine can help minimise the impact the condition has on your daily life.\n\nTaking frequent, brief naps evenly spaced throughout the day is one of the best ways to manage excessive daytime drowsiness.\n\nThis may be difficult when you're at work or school, but a GP or specialist may be able to devise a sleep schedule that will help you get into a routine of taking naps.\n\nKeeping to a strict bedtime routine can also help, so you should go to bed at the same time each night whenever possible.\n\nIf your symptoms are particularly troublesome, you may be prescribed medicine that can help reduce daytime sleepiness, prevent cataplexy attacks and improve your sleep at night.\n\nThese medicines are usually taken as daily tablets, capsules or drinkable solutions.\n\nFind out more about [treating narcolepsy](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/narcolepsy\/treatment\/).\n\n## Narcolepsy and driving\nIf you're diagnosed with narcolepsy, it may affect your ability to drive.\n\nStop driving immediately and inform the [Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/driver-and-vehicle-licensing-agency).\n\nYou'll need to complete a medical questionnaire so your individual circumstances can be assessed.\n\nYou'll usually be allowed to drive again if your narcolepsy is well controlled and you have regular reviews to assess your condition.\n\n[Narcolepsy UK's information about driving and narcolepsy](https:\/\/www.narcolepsy.org.uk\/resources\/narcolepsy-and-driving)\n\n[Tell the DVLA about your condition at GOV.UK: Narcolepsy and driving](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/narcolepsy-and-driving)\n\nPage last reviewed: 30 December 2022  \n Next review due: 30 December 2025\n\n- [Next : Symptoms](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/narcolepsy\/symptoms\/)\n\n## Support links\n- [Home](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/)\n- [Health A to Z](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/health-a-to-z\/)\n- [NHS services](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/nhs-services\/)\n- [Healthy living](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/live-well\/)\n- [Mental health](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/mental-health\/)\n- [Care and support](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/social-care-and-support\/)\n- [COVID-19](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/covid-19\/)\n\n- [NHS App](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/nhs-app\/)\n- [Find my NHS number](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/nhs-services\/online-services\/find-nhs-number\/)\n- [View your GP health record](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/nhs-services\/gps\/view-your-gp-health-record\/)\n- [View your test results](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/nhs-services\/online-services\/view-your-test-results\/)\n- [About the NHS](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/using-the-nhs\/about-the-nhs\/)\n- [Healthcare abroad](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/using-the-nhs\/healthcare-abroad\/)\n\n- [Other NHS websites](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/nhs-sites\/)\n- [Profile editor login](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/our-policies\/profile-editor-login\/)\n\n- [About us](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/about-us\/)\n- [Report an issue with the NHS website](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/report-an-issue-with-the-nhs-website)\n- [Accessibility statement](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/accessibility-statement\/)\n- [Our policies](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/our-policies\/)\n- [Cookies](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/our-policies\/choose-your-cookie-settings\/)\n\n© Crown copyright","attrs_readable_markdown":"**Narcolepsy is a rare long-term brain condition that can prevent a person from choosing when to wake or sleep.**\n\nThe brain is unable to regulate sleeping and waking patterns normally, which can result in:\n\n- excessive daytime sleepiness – feeling very drowsy throughout the day and finding it difficult to concentrate and stay awake\n- sleep attacks – falling asleep suddenly and without warning\n- cataplexy – temporary loss of muscle control resulting in weakness and possible collapse, often in response to emotions such as laughter and anger\n- [sleep paralysis](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/sleep-paralysis\/) – a temporary inability to move or speak when waking up or falling asleep\n- excessive dreaming and waking in the night – dreams often come as you fall asleep (hypnogogic hallucinations) or just before or during waking (hypnopompic hallucinations)\n\nNarcolepsy does not cause serious or long-term physical health problems, but it can have a significant impact on daily life and be difficult to cope with emotionally.\n\nIn an attempt to avoid attacks, some people may become emotionally withdrawn and socially isolated.\n\nFind out more about the [symptoms of narcolepsy](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/narcolepsy\/symptoms\/).\n\n## What causes narcolepsy\nNarcolepsy is often caused by a lack of the brain chemical hypocretin (also known as orexin), which regulates wakefulness.\n\nThe lack of hypocretin is thought to be caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking the cells that produce it or the receptors that allow it to work.\n\nBut this does not explain all cases of narcolepsy, and the exact cause of the problem is often unclear.\n\nThings that have been suggested as possible triggers of narcolepsy include:\n\n- hormonal changes, which can occur during puberty or the [menopause](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/menopause\/)\n- major psychological stress\n- an infection, such as [swine flu](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/swine-flu\/), or the medicine used to vaccinate against it (Pandemrix)\n\nFind out more about the [causes of narcolepsy](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/narcolepsy\/causes\/).\n\n## Who's affected\nIt's difficult to know exactly how many people have narcolepsy because many cases are thought to go unreported.\n\nBut it's estimated to affect about 30,000 people in the UK.\n\nMen and women are thought to be affected equally by narcolepsy, although some studies have suggested the condition may be more common in men.\n\nThe symptoms of narcolepsy often begin during adolescence, although it's usually diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40.\n\n## Diagnosing narcolepsy\nSee a GP if you think you may have narcolepsy. They may ask about your sleeping habits and any other symptoms you have.\n\nThey may also carry out tests to help rule out other conditions that could be causing your excessive daytime sleepiness, such as [sleep apnoea](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/sleep-apnoea\/), [restless legs](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/restless-legs-syndrome\/) in bed and kicking during sleep, or an [underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism)](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/underactive-thyroid-hypothyroidism\/).\n\nIf necessary, you'll be referred to a specialist in sleep disorders, who'll analyse your sleep patterns.\n\nThis will usually involve staying overnight in a specialist sleep centre so various aspects of your sleep can be monitored.\n\nFind out more about [diagnosing narcolepsy](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/narcolepsy\/diagnosis\/).\n\n## Treating narcolepsy\nThere's currently no cure for narcolepsy, but making changes to improve your sleeping habits and taking medicine can help minimise the impact the condition has on your daily life.\n\nTaking frequent, brief naps evenly spaced throughout the day is one of the best ways to manage excessive daytime drowsiness.\n\nThis may be difficult when you're at work or school, but a GP or specialist may be able to devise a sleep schedule that will help you get into a routine of taking naps.\n\nKeeping to a strict bedtime routine can also help, so you should go to bed at the same time each night whenever possible.\n\nIf your symptoms are particularly troublesome, you may be prescribed medicine that can help reduce daytime sleepiness, prevent cataplexy attacks and improve your sleep at night.\n\nThese medicines are usually taken as daily tablets, capsules or drinkable solutions.\n\nFind out more about [treating narcolepsy](https:\/\/www.nhs.uk\/conditions\/narcolepsy\/treatment\/).\n\n## Narcolepsy and driving\nIf you're diagnosed with narcolepsy, it may affect your ability to drive.\n\nStop driving immediately and inform the [Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/driver-and-vehicle-licensing-agency).\n\nYou'll need to complete a medical questionnaire so your individual circumstances can be assessed.\n\nYou'll usually be allowed to drive again if your narcolepsy is well controlled and you have regular reviews to assess your condition.\n\n[Narcolepsy UK's information about driving and narcolepsy](https:\/\/www.narcolepsy.org.uk\/resources\/narcolepsy-and-driving)\n\n[Tell the DVLA about your condition at GOV.UK: Narcolepsy and driving](https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/narcolepsy-and-driving)\n\nPage last reviewed: 30 December 2022  \n Next review due: 30 December 2025","meta_canonical":null}

3. Robots.txt Check

Query:

Response:

4. Spam/Ban Check

Query:

Response:

5. Seen Status Check

ℹ️ Skipped - page is already crawled

📄

INDEXABLE

✅

CRAWLED

1 day ago

🤖

ROBOTS ALLOWED

Page Info Filters

Filter	Status	Condition	Details
HTTP status	PASS	`download_http_code = 200`	HTTP 200
Age cutoff	PASS	`download_stamp > now() - 6 MONTH`	0 months ago
History drop	PASS	`isNull(history_drop_reason)`	No drop reason
Spam/ban	PASS	`fh_dont_index != 1 AND ml_spam_score = 0`	ml_spam_score=0
Canonical	PASS	`meta_canonical IS NULL OR = '' OR = src_unparsed`	Not set

Page Details

Property	Value
URL	https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/narcolepsy/
Last Crawled	2026-04-05 12:37:55 (1 day ago)
First Indexed	2017-11-11 08:54:17 (8 years ago)
HTTP Status Code	200
Meta Title	Narcolepsy - NHS
Meta Description	Read about narcolepsy, including the symptoms, causes, and how it's diagnosed and treated.
Meta Canonical	null
Boilerpipe Text	Narcolepsy is a rare long-term brain condition that can prevent a person from choosing when to wake or sleep. The brain is unable to regulate sleeping and waking patterns normally, which can result in: excessive daytime sleepiness – feeling very drowsy throughout the day and finding it difficult to concentrate and stay awake sleep attacks – falling asleep suddenly and without warning cataplexy – temporary loss of muscle control resulting in weakness and possible collapse, often in response to emotions such as laughter and anger sleep paralysis – a temporary inability to move or speak when waking up or falling asleep excessive dreaming and waking in the night – dreams often come as you fall asleep (hypnogogic hallucinations) or just before or during waking (hypnopompic hallucinations) Narcolepsy does not cause serious or long-term physical health problems, but it can have a significant impact on daily life and be difficult to cope with emotionally. In an attempt to avoid attacks, some people may become emotionally withdrawn and socially isolated. Find out more about the symptoms of narcolepsy . What causes narcolepsy Narcolepsy is often caused by a lack of the brain chemical hypocretin (also known as orexin), which regulates wakefulness. The lack of hypocretin is thought to be caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking the cells that produce it or the receptors that allow it to work. But this does not explain all cases of narcolepsy, and the exact cause of the problem is often unclear. Things that have been suggested as possible triggers of narcolepsy include: hormonal changes, which can occur during puberty or the menopause major psychological stress an infection, such as swine flu , or the medicine used to vaccinate against it (Pandemrix) Find out more about the causes of narcolepsy . Who's affected It's difficult to know exactly how many people have narcolepsy because many cases are thought to go unreported. But it's estimated to affect about 30,000 people in the UK. Men and women are thought to be affected equally by narcolepsy, although some studies have suggested the condition may be more common in men. The symptoms of narcolepsy often begin during adolescence, although it's usually diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40. Diagnosing narcolepsy See a GP if you think you may have narcolepsy. They may ask about your sleeping habits and any other symptoms you have. They may also carry out tests to help rule out other conditions that could be causing your excessive daytime sleepiness, such as sleep apnoea , restless legs in bed and kicking during sleep, or an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism) . If necessary, you'll be referred to a specialist in sleep disorders, who'll analyse your sleep patterns. This will usually involve staying overnight in a specialist sleep centre so various aspects of your sleep can be monitored. Find out more about diagnosing narcolepsy . Treating narcolepsy There's currently no cure for narcolepsy, but making changes to improve your sleeping habits and taking medicine can help minimise the impact the condition has on your daily life. Taking frequent, brief naps evenly spaced throughout the day is one of the best ways to manage excessive daytime drowsiness. This may be difficult when you're at work or school, but a GP or specialist may be able to devise a sleep schedule that will help you get into a routine of taking naps. Keeping to a strict bedtime routine can also help, so you should go to bed at the same time each night whenever possible. If your symptoms are particularly troublesome, you may be prescribed medicine that can help reduce daytime sleepiness, prevent cataplexy attacks and improve your sleep at night. These medicines are usually taken as daily tablets, capsules or drinkable solutions. Find out more about treating narcolepsy . Narcolepsy and driving If you're diagnosed with narcolepsy, it may affect your ability to drive. Stop driving immediately and inform the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) . You'll need to complete a medical questionnaire so your individual circumstances can be assessed. You'll usually be allowed to drive again if your narcolepsy is well controlled and you have regular reviews to assess your condition. Narcolepsy UK's information about driving and narcolepsy Tell the DVLA about your condition at GOV.UK: Narcolepsy and driving Page last reviewed: 30 December 2022 Next review due: 30 December 2025
Markdown	[Skip to main content](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/narcolepsy/#maincontent) - [Health A to Z](https://www.nhs.uk/health-a-to-z/) - [NHS services](https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/) - [Healthy living](https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/) - [Mental health](https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/) - [Care and support](https://www.nhs.uk/social-care-and-support/) - [Home](https://www.nhs.uk/) - Browse More 1. [Home](https://www.nhs.uk/) 2. [Health A to Z](https://www.nhs.uk/health-a-to-z/) 3. [Conditions A to Z](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/) [Back to Conditions A to Z](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/) # Overview - Narcolepsy ## Contents 1. Overview 2. [Symptoms](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/narcolepsy/symptoms/) 3. [Causes](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/narcolepsy/causes/) 4. [Diagnosis](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/narcolepsy/diagnosis/) 5. [Treatment](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/narcolepsy/treatment/) Narcolepsy is a rare long-term brain condition that can prevent a person from choosing when to wake or sleep. The brain is unable to regulate sleeping and waking patterns normally, which can result in: - excessive daytime sleepiness – feeling very drowsy throughout the day and finding it difficult to concentrate and stay awake - sleep attacks – falling asleep suddenly and without warning - cataplexy – temporary loss of muscle control resulting in weakness and possible collapse, often in response to emotions such as laughter and anger - [sleep paralysis](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sleep-paralysis/) – a temporary inability to move or speak when waking up or falling asleep - excessive dreaming and waking in the night – dreams often come as you fall asleep (hypnogogic hallucinations) or just before or during waking (hypnopompic hallucinations) Narcolepsy does not cause serious or long-term physical health problems, but it can have a significant impact on daily life and be difficult to cope with emotionally. In an attempt to avoid attacks, some people may become emotionally withdrawn and socially isolated. Find out more about the [symptoms of narcolepsy](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/narcolepsy/symptoms/). ## What causes narcolepsy Narcolepsy is often caused by a lack of the brain chemical hypocretin (also known as orexin), which regulates wakefulness. The lack of hypocretin is thought to be caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking the cells that produce it or the receptors that allow it to work. But this does not explain all cases of narcolepsy, and the exact cause of the problem is often unclear. Things that have been suggested as possible triggers of narcolepsy include: - hormonal changes, which can occur during puberty or the [menopause](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/menopause/) - major psychological stress - an infection, such as [swine flu](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/swine-flu/), or the medicine used to vaccinate against it (Pandemrix) Find out more about the [causes of narcolepsy](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/narcolepsy/causes/). ## Who's affected It's difficult to know exactly how many people have narcolepsy because many cases are thought to go unreported. But it's estimated to affect about 30,000 people in the UK. Men and women are thought to be affected equally by narcolepsy, although some studies have suggested the condition may be more common in men. The symptoms of narcolepsy often begin during adolescence, although it's usually diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40. ## Diagnosing narcolepsy See a GP if you think you may have narcolepsy. They may ask about your sleeping habits and any other symptoms you have. They may also carry out tests to help rule out other conditions that could be causing your excessive daytime sleepiness, such as [sleep apnoea](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sleep-apnoea/), [restless legs](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/restless-legs-syndrome/) in bed and kicking during sleep, or an [underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism)](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/underactive-thyroid-hypothyroidism/). If necessary, you'll be referred to a specialist in sleep disorders, who'll analyse your sleep patterns. This will usually involve staying overnight in a specialist sleep centre so various aspects of your sleep can be monitored. Find out more about [diagnosing narcolepsy](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/narcolepsy/diagnosis/). ## Treating narcolepsy There's currently no cure for narcolepsy, but making changes to improve your sleeping habits and taking medicine can help minimise the impact the condition has on your daily life. Taking frequent, brief naps evenly spaced throughout the day is one of the best ways to manage excessive daytime drowsiness. This may be difficult when you're at work or school, but a GP or specialist may be able to devise a sleep schedule that will help you get into a routine of taking naps. Keeping to a strict bedtime routine can also help, so you should go to bed at the same time each night whenever possible. If your symptoms are particularly troublesome, you may be prescribed medicine that can help reduce daytime sleepiness, prevent cataplexy attacks and improve your sleep at night. These medicines are usually taken as daily tablets, capsules or drinkable solutions. Find out more about [treating narcolepsy](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/narcolepsy/treatment/). ## Narcolepsy and driving If you're diagnosed with narcolepsy, it may affect your ability to drive. Stop driving immediately and inform the [Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)](https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/driver-and-vehicle-licensing-agency). You'll need to complete a medical questionnaire so your individual circumstances can be assessed. You'll usually be allowed to drive again if your narcolepsy is well controlled and you have regular reviews to assess your condition. [Narcolepsy UK's information about driving and narcolepsy](https://www.narcolepsy.org.uk/resources/narcolepsy-and-driving) [Tell the DVLA about your condition at GOV.UK: Narcolepsy and driving](https://www.gov.uk/narcolepsy-and-driving) Page last reviewed: 30 December 2022 Next review due: 30 December 2025 - [Next : Symptoms](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/narcolepsy/symptoms/) ## Support links - [Home](https://www.nhs.uk/) - [Health A to Z](https://www.nhs.uk/health-a-to-z/) - [NHS services](https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/) - [Healthy living](https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/) - [Mental health](https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/) - [Care and support](https://www.nhs.uk/social-care-and-support/) - [COVID-19](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/covid-19/) - [NHS App](https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-app/) - [Find my NHS number](https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/online-services/find-nhs-number/) - [View your GP health record](https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/gps/view-your-gp-health-record/) - [View your test results](https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/online-services/view-your-test-results/) - [About the NHS](https://www.nhs.uk/using-the-nhs/about-the-nhs/) - [Healthcare abroad](https://www.nhs.uk/using-the-nhs/healthcare-abroad/) - [Other NHS websites](https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-sites/) - [Profile editor login](https://www.nhs.uk/our-policies/profile-editor-login/) - [About us](https://www.nhs.uk/about-us/) - [Report an issue with the NHS website](https://www.nhs.uk/report-an-issue-with-the-nhs-website) - [Accessibility statement](https://www.nhs.uk/accessibility-statement/) - [Our policies](https://www.nhs.uk/our-policies/) - [Cookies](https://www.nhs.uk/our-policies/choose-your-cookie-settings/) © Crown copyright
Readable Markdown	Narcolepsy is a rare long-term brain condition that can prevent a person from choosing when to wake or sleep. The brain is unable to regulate sleeping and waking patterns normally, which can result in: - excessive daytime sleepiness – feeling very drowsy throughout the day and finding it difficult to concentrate and stay awake - sleep attacks – falling asleep suddenly and without warning - cataplexy – temporary loss of muscle control resulting in weakness and possible collapse, often in response to emotions such as laughter and anger - [sleep paralysis](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sleep-paralysis/) – a temporary inability to move or speak when waking up or falling asleep - excessive dreaming and waking in the night – dreams often come as you fall asleep (hypnogogic hallucinations) or just before or during waking (hypnopompic hallucinations) Narcolepsy does not cause serious or long-term physical health problems, but it can have a significant impact on daily life and be difficult to cope with emotionally. In an attempt to avoid attacks, some people may become emotionally withdrawn and socially isolated. Find out more about the [symptoms of narcolepsy](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/narcolepsy/symptoms/). ## What causes narcolepsy Narcolepsy is often caused by a lack of the brain chemical hypocretin (also known as orexin), which regulates wakefulness. The lack of hypocretin is thought to be caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking the cells that produce it or the receptors that allow it to work. But this does not explain all cases of narcolepsy, and the exact cause of the problem is often unclear. Things that have been suggested as possible triggers of narcolepsy include: - hormonal changes, which can occur during puberty or the [menopause](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/menopause/) - major psychological stress - an infection, such as [swine flu](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/swine-flu/), or the medicine used to vaccinate against it (Pandemrix) Find out more about the [causes of narcolepsy](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/narcolepsy/causes/). ## Who's affected It's difficult to know exactly how many people have narcolepsy because many cases are thought to go unreported. But it's estimated to affect about 30,000 people in the UK. Men and women are thought to be affected equally by narcolepsy, although some studies have suggested the condition may be more common in men. The symptoms of narcolepsy often begin during adolescence, although it's usually diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40. ## Diagnosing narcolepsy See a GP if you think you may have narcolepsy. They may ask about your sleeping habits and any other symptoms you have. They may also carry out tests to help rule out other conditions that could be causing your excessive daytime sleepiness, such as [sleep apnoea](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sleep-apnoea/), [restless legs](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/restless-legs-syndrome/) in bed and kicking during sleep, or an [underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism)](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/underactive-thyroid-hypothyroidism/). If necessary, you'll be referred to a specialist in sleep disorders, who'll analyse your sleep patterns. This will usually involve staying overnight in a specialist sleep centre so various aspects of your sleep can be monitored. Find out more about [diagnosing narcolepsy](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/narcolepsy/diagnosis/). ## Treating narcolepsy There's currently no cure for narcolepsy, but making changes to improve your sleeping habits and taking medicine can help minimise the impact the condition has on your daily life. Taking frequent, brief naps evenly spaced throughout the day is one of the best ways to manage excessive daytime drowsiness. This may be difficult when you're at work or school, but a GP or specialist may be able to devise a sleep schedule that will help you get into a routine of taking naps. Keeping to a strict bedtime routine can also help, so you should go to bed at the same time each night whenever possible. If your symptoms are particularly troublesome, you may be prescribed medicine that can help reduce daytime sleepiness, prevent cataplexy attacks and improve your sleep at night. These medicines are usually taken as daily tablets, capsules or drinkable solutions. Find out more about [treating narcolepsy](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/narcolepsy/treatment/). ## Narcolepsy and driving If you're diagnosed with narcolepsy, it may affect your ability to drive. Stop driving immediately and inform the [Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)](https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/driver-and-vehicle-licensing-agency). You'll need to complete a medical questionnaire so your individual circumstances can be assessed. You'll usually be allowed to drive again if your narcolepsy is well controlled and you have regular reviews to assess your condition. [Narcolepsy UK's information about driving and narcolepsy](https://www.narcolepsy.org.uk/resources/narcolepsy-and-driving) [Tell the DVLA about your condition at GOV.UK: Narcolepsy and driving](https://www.gov.uk/narcolepsy-and-driving) Page last reviewed: 30 December 2022 Next review due: 30 December 2025
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