Narcolepsy
Overview
Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder caused by autoimmune loss of hypocretin (orexin) neurons, producing uncontrollable sleep attacks and, in type 1, cataplexy.
Health Consequences
SLEEP‑2024 data show narcolepsy independently raises cardiovascular‑disease risk by ~77 %.
Rebis Treatment Approach
Wake‑promoting medications (modafinil, solriamfetol, pitolisant)
Scheduled restorative naps
Nutrition guidance to stabilise glucose oscillations
Immunomodulatory evaluation when clinically indicated
Connection to Other Health Domains
| System | Untreated Impact | Key Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Cardiovascular & Metabolic |
Higher prevalence of hypertension and dyslipidaemia | SLEEP 2024 abstracts |
| Hormone Imbalances | Loss of orexin disturbs appetite & weight control | Endocr Rev 2023 |
| Immune | T-cell-mediated autoimmunity | Nat Rev Neurol 2023 |
| Gastrointestinal | Higher rates of celiac and autoimmune GI disorders | Clin Gastro Hep 2022 |
Benefits of Treatment
Treatment stabilises alertness, reduces accident risk, and—by dampening autoimmune activity—may lower long‑term cardiovascular burden.
Key References:
Narcolepsy and cardiovascular‑disease risk (SLEEP 2024) – https://www.sleepmeeting.org/narcolepsy-is-a-risk-factor-for-cardiovascular-disease-and-adverse-cardiac-events/