Advancements in the understanding of narcolepsy are happening. Register for updates »
Evaluating for Ongoing Excessive Daytime Sleepiness in Narcolepsy
Hear how people may describe their excessive daytime sleepiness and gain insights to help enhance your clinical interview skills.
What Does Excessive Daytime Sleepiness (EDS) With Narcolepsy Feel Like?
Emily, Scott, Sharon, & Sean
Four people living with narcolepsy share their experience of what excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) feels like for them.
Excessive daytime sleepiness in narcolepsy is more than just falling asleep.1,2
Excessive daytime sleepiness can also cause changes in wakefulness that may be difficult to recognize.2,3 People with excessive daytime sleepiness may use vague terms to describe their sleepiness, such as being “tired all the time,” “fatigue,” a “lack of energy,” or that they have “brain fog.” They may not recognize the extent of their sleepiness and may even deny being sleepy.2 However, even less obvious manifestations of excessive daytime sleepiness can have a substantial impact.3,4 The perspective of friends and family members is important when talking to your patients about their sleepiness.2
Listen carefully, and evaluate for:
- Characteristics2,5
- How often do you experience excessive daytime sleepiness?
- Since it started, has there been any freedom from excessive daytime sleepiness?
- More obvious excessive daytime sleepiness manifestations1
- How often do you need to take naps during the day?
- Do you ever fall asleep without warning?
- How long do planned or unplanned naps last?
- Less obvious excessive daytime sleepiness manifestations1,2,4
- How would you describe what sleepiness feels like to you?
- Do you experience fatigue?
- Have you had any difficulties with your mood, like irritability?
- Do you ever do things or have conversations with people and not remember them happening?
- Propensity for sleepiness or dozing in different situations1,2,6
- Do you tend to experience excessive daytime sleepiness when you are sitting still/inactive?
- Do you ever experience excessive daytime sleepiness in more active situations, like when you are talking or eating?
- Impact of excessive daytime sleepiness1,2,7,8
- Are there activities you avoid because of your EDS?
- How has excessive daytime sleepiness affected your daily life?
- What is the impact of excessive daytime sleepiness on your quality of life?