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Narcolepsy leads to drowsy driving

Written by: David Castillo on May 31st, 2010

Narcolepsy leads to drowsy driving | read this item

Drowsy driving is caused by a sleep disorder that causes individuals to suddenly fall asleep while performing daily activities. This condition is massively undiagnosed in Ireland, and it poses serious threats.

New research sought to get better insight on narcolepsy, which present around 25 in 100,000 people.

Researchers from Bon Secours Hospital said that more than 80 percent of narcolepsy patients are left undiagnosed. This means that many sufferers are left untreated, which could lead to unwanted accidents.

“For these sufferers, this could lead to unfulfilled school potential, unemployment, poor work performance or possibly have implications for road safety,” warned the researchers.

Identification is difficult due to several factors, including lack of resources and poor recognition.

Here are some symptoms of narcolepsy:
•   Consistent drowsiness during daytime
•   Temporary muscle paralysis during sleep and when waking
•   Hallucinations
•   Difficulty in concentrating
•   Restless sleep—nightmares, physically acting dreams

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, get yourself checked in your nearest sleep clinic.

Source: Independent.ie