Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It's also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Narcolepsy Association (UK) gets your money faster and, if you're a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation. What is narcolepsy? Narcolepsy is a malfunction of the sleep/wake regulating system in the brain which until recently was of unknown origin. Its most common manifestation is Excessive Daytime Sleepiness and sleep attacks. The other conspicuous symptom is a sudden loss of muscular control triggered by amusement, anger or excitement which is called cataplexy. Other symptoms of narcolepsy are: Temporary paralysis on falling asleep or awakening (sleep paralysis). The periods of paralysis are usually brief - a few minutes - but can persist for up to 30 minutes. Episodes of sleep paralysis may alarm patients, particularly those who experience the sensation of being unable to breathe. Hallucinations - vivid images or sounds - on falling asleep or awakening (Hypnagogic and hypnopompic hallucinations respectively). These hallucinations frequently combine elements of dream sleep and consciousness and are often very disturbing to patients. Moments (but sometimes extended periods) of trance-like behaviour in which routine activities are continued on 'auto-pilot' (Automatic behaviour). Interruption of night-time sleep by frequent waking periods, marked by quickening of the heart rate, over-alertness, hot flushes, and agitation. This disturbed sleep can contribute to a feeling of tiredness in the morning.