Question 1

what is the cataplexy?

Accepted Answer

Cataplexy: Cataplexy is a sudden and uncontrollable muscle weakness or paralysis that comes on during the day and is often triggered by a strong emotion, such as excitement or laughter.

A person experiencing total cataplexy stays awake and is aware of what is happening, but cannot move. These episodes last up to a minute or two, and some people may fall asleep afterwards.

Question 2

how can i treat cataplexy?

Accepted Answer

Cataplexy: Medications such as Xyrem &amp; Antdepressants.

Question 3

does anyone treat cataplexy?

Accepted Answer

Definitely: Cataplexy can be a disabling symptom of narolepsy.  So if it is prominent or bothersome treatment is indicated.  There are a number of anticataplectic medications and particularly one medication that has been specifically approved for narcolepsy with cataplexy.  Need to see board certified sleep specialist.

Question 4

what are the signs of cataplexy?

Accepted Answer

SLEEP DISORDER: Narcolepsy and cataplexy are very much associated.  There are daytime irresistable sleep attacks, florid nitemares, and sleep paralysis on awakening.  The cataplexy involves a sudden loss of muscle tone and collapse with intense emotions, such as crying or laughing.  Sleep studies can help confirm a diagnosis.  Treatment can be very successful.

Question 5

what are the symptoms of cataplexy?

Accepted Answer

Cataplexy: Loss of muscle tone can present with sagging jaw, arm weakness, slumping shoulders, drooping head, slurred speech, generalized weakness.

Question 6

can you have only one episode of cataplexy and then never have it again?

Accepted Answer

Cataplexy: Very unusual. I have heard of attacks decreasing with age, but never a single attack.

Question 7

can you tell me what to expect with symptoms of cataplexy when i am very scaredwith the possibility of it being cataplexy?

Accepted Answer

Cataplexy: Loss of muscle tone can present with sagging jaw, arm weakness, slumping shoulders, drooping head, slurred speech, generalized weakness.

Question 8

new onset cataplexy attacks. what are the next steps?

Accepted Answer

See your doctor: Cataplexy is the sudden loss of muscle tone often triggered by strong emotions such as laughter, surprise, crying. It is a condition associated with narcolepsy. Cataplexy attacks can be mistaken for seizures. If you are having these types of spells, see your doctor and let them know your concerns. Treatment is available to help lessen the symptoms.

Question 9

what is the definition or description of: cataplexy attacks?

Accepted Answer

Cataplexy attacks: Cataplexy attacks =  sudden onset but brief bouts of marked  muscle weakness  which can cause someone to collapse.  These may be related to narcolepsy or strong emotions.

Question 10

how long after first episode of narcolepsy appear cataplexy?

Accepted Answer

Depends: Approximately 30% of narcoleptics do not experience cataplexy, making the diagnosis of narcolepsy a bit more difficult. Have you seen a neurology sleep specialist and undergone a sleep study? If not, see your physician in order to discuss your symptoms. http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/narcolepsy/detail_narcolepsy.htm , http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/slpst/

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Does anyone treat cataplexy?

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What are the signs of cataplexy?

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What are the symptoms of cataplexy?

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Can you have only one episode of cataplexy and then never have it again?

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Can you tell me what to expect with symptoms of cataplexy when i am very scaredwith the possibility of it being cataplexy?

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New onset cataplexy attacks. what are the next steps?

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What is the definition or description of: cataplexy attacks?

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How long after first episode of narcolepsy appear cataplexy?

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