Photo by 422737
In a recent article by CNN, the challenges faced by individuals living with narcolepsy were highlighted, shedding light on a condition that affects approximately one in 2,000 people in the United States and around 3 million globally. Jennifer Mundt, an assistant professor at Northwestern University Fein School of Medicine in Chicago, emphasized the severity of the disorder, stating, “There has been a lot of stigma surrounding narcolepsy… It’s not a joke; it’s a very serious condition”.
The article features the experiences of individuals like Horsnell, who has battled narcolepsy since age 12. He described the long journey to diagnosis, which included consultations with multiple healthcare professionals before finally seeing a sleep specialist in 2007. The Narcolepsy Network estimates that only about 25% of those affected receive a proper diagnosis and treatment, highlighting significant gaps in awareness and healthcare access.
Mundt explained that narcolepsy often includes symptoms such as excessive daytime sleepiness and cataplexy, which can severely impact daily life. The disorder can lead to difficulties in socializing, maintaining employment, and even driving.
Moreover, nightmares and hallucinations are common among those with narcolepsy. Mundt conducted a pilot study utilizing cognitive behavioral sleep techniques to manage these disturbing symptoms.
The ongoing stigma surrounding narcolepsy not only complicates diagnosis but also affects how individuals are perceived socially.
For more information on this topic, you can read the full article on CNN’s website.
Sources:
[1] https://www.cnn.com/2024/11/01/health/narcolepsy-wellness/index.html
[2] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/narcolepsy/symptoms-causes/syc-20375497
[3] https://edition.cnn.com/2023/12/21/health/sleep-mental-health-wellness/index.html
[4] https://www.cnn.com/2024/06/08/health/violent-dreams-parkinsons-dementia-wellness/index.html
[5] https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/narcolepsy
[6] https://www.cnn.com/2017/10/24/health/sleep-research-narcolepsy-partner/index.html
[7] https://www.cnn.com/2017/04/27/health/narcolepsy-marathon-runner-julie-flygare/index.html
[8] https://www.cnn.com/2015/09/25/health/narcolepsy-homer-simpson/index.html
As the holiday season kicks off, food safety experts are emphasizing the importance of careful meal preparation to prevent foodborne illnesses. Outbreaks of food poisoning typically increase during November and December, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease...
Cold therapy is rapidly becoming a favored method for muscle recovery among athletes, with experts highlighting its potential benefits in reducing soreness and enhancing performance. Marissa Miller reports for CNN Underscored that cold therapy products, including ice...
On November 12, 2024, the CDC released new data indicating that the sexually transmitted infection (STI) epidemic in the United States may be showing signs of slowing down. Despite over 2.4 million STIs reported in 2023, including gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis,...
Cases of walking pneumonia, primarily caused by the Mycoplasma pneumoniae bacteria, are surging among children in the United States this year, particularly affecting preschool-age children. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued warnings...
A new treatment protocol for cervical cancer has shown promising results, significantly reducing the risk of death by 40%, according to a large-scale clinical trial conducted by researchers at University College London (UCL) and its associated hospital, University...
A recent study has uncovered alarming levels of toxic flame retardants in black plastic products commonly found in households, including kitchen utensils, food containers, and children's toys. This research, published in the journal Chemosphere, highlights a...
As the fall season approaches, federal health officials are emphasizing the importance of getting vaccinated against COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug...
A recent study reveals that picky eating in children is largely influenced by genetics rather than parenting, providing reassurance to many frustrated parents. Conducted by researchers from University College London, King’s College London, and the University of Leeds,...