Q&A

I think I may be breaking the rules here by asking, but I think I may have narcolepsy. I’m not self diagnosing and I already have an appointment with a sleep specialist. But I would like an opinion from someone who actually has it and understands it.

In my experience I have what I think are sleep attacks where I physically can’t stay awake. I can try and try to fight it but sleep almost always wins. Usually results in a short nap then I feel alright most of the time. I can take a 20 minute nap and have vivid dreams. I also hallucinate while I’m falling asleep and when I wake up. Don’t get me started on how long I sleep for. I sleep for at least 10 hours every night sometimes up to 16 hours. Then I have such a hard time waking up. Like it feels impossible most days to get out of bed because I’m so exhausted. Many times I fall back asleep accidentally while planning to get up. I’m always tired. I drink caffeine which gives me a very temporary boost then I’m tired again. Doing everyday activities such as chores, work, socializing, etc all become too overwhelming because I’m so exhausted.

When I look up these symptoms I’m told these is a typical cluster of narcolepsy symptoms, but I also know it’s never good to play “google doctor”. And no I’m not depressed and I don’t believe I’m just “lazy”. I truly want to live a normal life and be productive. I’m just tired lol.