However, narcolepsy is most commonly associated with the
onset of "mini sleeps" or "sleep attacks" during the day.
These narcoleptic episodes (often referred to as EDS or
excessive daytime sleepiness) occur when the individual is
suddenly overcome by the urge to sleep. The resulting state
of narcolepsis can pass within a few seconds or it can last
for more than half an hour.

Relatively recent medical research identifies narcolepsy as
a genetically based sleep regulation disorder that usually
emerges during the middle and late teenage years. However,
strong evidence also suggests that some forms of the
condition can be caused by head trauma or brain injury.
Regardless of the cause, because the characteristics of
narcolepsy can also be symptomatic of other, similar sleep
disorders, a thorough medical evaluation (often including a
variety of overnight sleep tests) is required for a correct
diagnosis.

Although scientists continue to close in on the genes
connected with the onset of narcolepsy, treatments for
narcoleptics still vary widely. Common treatments include
the use of approved prescription drugs, such as modafinil
and selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors like fluoxitine
and sertroline, to treat the excessive daytime sleepiness.

In large part however the management of narcolepsy depends
upon what appears most effective for the individual, and
because no cure exists at this time, the available
treatments primarily address the sleep disorder's symptoms.

For most narcoleptics a combination of prescription
medications, natural sleep remedies and behavioral
strategies prove the best means of effectively managing
their narcolepsy. This pro-active approach to dealing with
the condition involves simple lifestyle adjustments to
enhance the quality and duration of each night's sleep
(including dietary changes and the use of regular exercise)
as well as actively managed sleep cycles that incorporate
short, scheduled naps. A variety of natural sleep remedies
can also successfully help narcoleptics manage their
condition.

Herbal teas and infusions can effectively help to induce and
enhance the body's natural sleep cycle and offer a healthful
alternative to sleeping pills. Supplementary melatonin (the
hormone produced as part of the body's natural sleep cycle)
may also help narcoleptics enjoy a better night's sleep.
Guided meditation and relaxation, chromotherapy and
aromatherapy can also prove valuable natural enhancements to
the successful management of narcolepsy.

Donald Saunders is the author of a number of health related
e-books including "Help Me To Sleep - A Guide To Natural
Sleep Remedies"
Need to cure your insomnia and get a good night's sleep?
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sleep.com/index1.html">Narcolepsy