Psychiatry Core Practice Exam 2025 - Free Psychiatry Core Practice Questions and Study Guide

The primary symptom of narcolepsy is sudden overwhelming daytime drowsiness. This condition is characterized by an uncontrollable urge to sleep during the daytime, which can occur unexpectedly and can greatly affect a person's ability to function in daily activities. Individuals with narcolepsy may find it challenging to stay awake, even during important or engaging activities, and this excessive daytime sleepiness can manifest as lapses into sleep that last from a few seconds to several minutes.

In addition to overwhelming daytime drowsiness, narcolepsy may also include other symptoms such as cataplexy, hallucinations, and sleep paralysis, but the hallmark symptom that distinguishes narcolepsy is the profound and disruptive daytime sleepiness. While chronic insomnia, nausea and dizziness, and persistent nightmares can impact sleep, they do not specifically align with the defining features of narcolepsy.

Understanding the nature of narcolepsy and its primary symptom is crucial for recognizing the disorder and differentiating it from other sleep-related issues.