Published on: 6/20/2025
What are the characteristics of narcolepsy type 2?
Narcolepsy type 2 is a sleep disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness but does not involve cataplexy (which involves episodes of muscle weakness while you are awake). On the other hand, people with narcolepsy type 1 experience both excessive daytime sleepiness and cataplexy.
Explanation
Narcolepsy type 2 is a condition that makes people feel very sleepy during the day. This can make it hard to stay awake at school or work. People with narcolepsy type 2 do not have cataplexy, which is a sudden loss of muscle strength associated with narcolepsy type 1.
Key Characteristics of Narcolepsy Type 2:
- Excessive Daytime Sleepiness: People feel very sleepy during the day and may fall asleep suddenly.
- No Cataplexy: Unlike narcolepsy type 1, people with narcolepsy type 2 do not experience episodes of sudden muscle weakness while awake.
- Sleep Disturbances: People might have trouble staying asleep at night. Also, some people with narcolepsy type 2 can experience sleep paralysis and/or hallucinations either when falling asleep or waking up.
Narcolepsy type 2 appears to be slightly less common than narcolepsy type 1. Doctors use sleep studies to help figure out if someone has narcolepsy type 2. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider for proper and personalized evaluation and management. Additional information about narcolepsy is available at https://sleepeducation.org/sleep-disorders/narcolepsy/.
(References)
- Baumann-Vogel H, Schreckenbauer L, Valko PO, Werth E, & Baumann CR. (2021). Narcolepsy type 2: A rare, yet existing entity. Journal of sleep research, 32989797.
- Barateau L, Chenini S, Denis C, Lorber Q, Béziat S, Jaussent I, & Dauvilliers Y. (2024). Narcolepsy Severity Scale-2 and Idiopathic Hypersomnia .... Sleep, 38197577.
- Blattner M, & Maski K. (2023). Narcolepsy and Idiopathic Hypersomnia. Sleep medicine clinics, 37120161.
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