Narcolepsy vs. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: What’s the Difference?

Narcolepsy and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) are both conditions that can cause excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS). However, there are some key differences between the two conditions.

Symptoms

In addition to EDS, narcolepsy can also cause:

* Cataplexy: sudden muscle weakness or paralysis that can be triggered by strong emotions or laughter

* Sleep paralysis: temporary inability to move or speak when falling asleep or waking up

* Hallucinations: vivid dreams or dream-like experiences that occur while falling asleep or waking up

CFS, on the other hand, is characterized by:

* Fatigue that is not relieved by sleep

* Muscle pain

* Headaches

* Sore throat

* Swollen lymph nodes

* Difficulty concentrating

* Irritability

* Depression

Causes

The exact cause of narcolepsy is unknown, but it is thought to be an autoimmune disorder. In people with narcolepsy, the immune system attacks the brain cells that produce hypocretin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate sleep-wake cycles.

CFS is also thought to be an autoimmune disorder, but the exact cause is unknown. Some researchers believe that CFS may be triggered by a viral infection, such as Epstein-Barr virus or human herpesvirus 6.

Diagnosis

Narcolepsy is diagnosed based on a person's symptoms and a sleep study. A sleep study involves spending the night in a sleep lab and having your sleep patterns monitored.

CFS is diagnosed based on a person's symptoms and a physical exam. There is no specific test that can diagnose CFS.

Treatment

There is no cure for narcolepsy, but there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms. These treatments include:

* Medications to promote wakefulness

* Medications to reduce cataplexy and sleep paralysis

* Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding caffeine and alcohol and getting regular exercise

There is also no cure for CFS, but there are treatments that can help relieve the symptoms. These treatments include:

* Medications to relieve pain and fatigue

* Physical therapy

* Cognitive behavioral therapy

* Lifestyle changes, such as getting regular exercise and eating a healthy diet

Prognosis

The prognosis for narcolepsy is variable. Some people may experience only mild symptoms that do not interfere with their daily lives, while others may have severe symptoms that can make it difficult to work or go to school.

The prognosis for CFS is also variable. Some people may experience only mild symptoms that come and go, while others may have severe symptoms that can last for years.