Top 12 Scary Sleep Disorders!

9. Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is defined as a lifelong sleep disorder, which can cause uncontrollable “sleep attacks”. This can be especially dangerous as a person can fall asleep at any time, usually without warning, while driving or eating (Allan Rechtschaffen, PhD et al). 1 in 2,000 people suffer from some form of narcolepsy, as it does not always lead to these sleep attacks and can be mostly excessive sleepiness. Recent scientific research suggests that many people with narcolepsy with cataplexy (attacks which cause a sudden loss of muscle tone while awake, usually due to strong emotions being experienced, like surprise and anger) have low levels of the brain neurotransmitter hypocretin, a chemical that regulates arousal, wakefulness and appetite.