With cataplexy episode, is loud ringing of the ears common? is it normal to lose consciousness for a few seconds? or is that more like actual syncope?

Cataplexy: occurs typically as a manifestation of Narcolepsy. REM onset sleep is seen on a Multiple Sleep Latency Test in the absence of any other more common sleep disorder that might produce excessive daytime somnolence (as is seen with obstructive sleep apnea) Syncope (due to insufficient blood flow to the brain for whatever reason) can be brief with ringing and reverses when blood flow is restored.

Yes: Cataplexy manifests itself as muscular weakness which may range from a barely perceptible slackening of the facial muscles to complete muscle paralysis with postural collapse. Attacks are brief, most lasting from a few seconds to a couple of minutes, and typically involve dropping of the jaw, neck weakness, and/or buckling of the knees.Cataplexy attacks are self-limiting and resolve themselves.