Narcolepsy is a chronic neurological disorder, affecting the part of the brain that regulates when to be asleep and when to be awake. Narcoleptics can fall asleep while working, cooking, or even driving.

Narcolepsy affects about 1 in 2,000 people, and is thought to be a genetic disorder. Most people experience their first symptoms between the ages of 10 and 25. Narcolepsy is a lifelong condition, but narcoleptics who make certain lifestyle changes and seek medical help can reduce symptoms, improve alertness and enjoy a full and active life

Source helpguide.org/life/narcol...eatments.htm

Cataplexy is sudden and transient episode of loss of muscle tone, often triggered by emotions. It is a rare disease (prevalence of fewer than 5 per 10,000 in the community), but frequently affects people who have narcolepsy, a disorder whose principal signs are EDS (Excessive Daytime Sleepiness), sleep attacks, sleep paralysis, hypnagogic hallucinations and disturbed night-time sleep. Cataplexy is sometimes confused with epilepsy, where a series of flashes or other stimuli cause superficially similar seizures. Cataplexy can also be present as a side effect of SSRI Discontinuation Syndrome....attacks are triggered by strong emotions such as exhilaration, anger, fear, surprise, orgasm, awe, embarrassment, and laughter. Cataplexy may be partial or complete, affecting a range of muscle groups, from those controlling facial features to (less commonly) those controlling the entire body
* Arm weakness
* Sagging jaw
* Drooping head
* Slumping of the shoulders
* Slurred speech
* Generalized weakness
* Knee buckling

When cataplexy happens often, or cataplexy attacks make patients fall or drop things, it can have serious effects on normal activities. It can cause accidents and be embarrassing when it happens at work or with friends. For example, narcoleptics may not pick up babies because they are afraid they may drop them.


Source en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cataplexy

There were mentioned in a newspaper article I read yesterday....