Narcolepsy is a medical term for a condition that causes you to feel an overwhelming urge to fall asleep. You can sleep for only a few seconds or for longer periods of time, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. If you've been diagnosed with narcolepsy, you may also experience a sudden loss of muscle tone, quasi-paralysis and hallucinations. To date, there is no cure for the condition, although medications are often offered to help with symptoms. Antidepressants are often prescribed to help treat symptoms. Alternative forms of treatment, such as massage therapy, also offer some relief, depending on the severity of the condition.
Calming the Spirit
Massage may help relieve some symptoms and anxieties and help promote longer sleep during nighttime hours. Getting a massage may help improve emotions for those frustrated by interrupted sleep, inability to sleep when you want and urges to fall asleep when you don't want to. Massage Therapy.com suggests that the emotional strain of such a condition may cause irritability and stress and may lead to poor health. Massage won't cure the condition, but it may help in the emotional aspects of a treatment plan, in conjunction with medications and other therapies suggested by your doctor.
Endorphins
Endorphins are your body's own "feel-good" hormones that elevate mood and spirit. Combined with regular exercise routines, which also release endorphins, prescription drug therapy and other forms and combinations of treatment, many diagnosed with narcolepsy may improve their ability to function as well as enhance quality of life through massage therapy. The mental benefits of the release of endorphins following a massage may help you feel more refreshed and alert, and may offer a slower respiration and heart rate, improving circulation and digestion.
Reduced Muscle Tension
Massage therapy techniques stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, states Loving Hands Institute, serving to relax tight muscles. Tight muscles are often caused by stress, worry and anxiety experienced by those diagnosed with narcolepsy, as they are concerned about when and where they're going to fall asleep, making even simple daily activities difficult if not impossible. Healthy muscles and muscle tone prompt overall physical health and wellness.
Nerve Function
Massage may also help improve nerve stimulation and function, which for some may help reduce the severity and frequency of bouts of narcolepsy. Narcolepsy may be caused by overstimulation of nerve cells called hypocretin neurons, which upset the normal balance of the body's circadian rhythm. The circadian rhythm allows each individual to engage in restful sleep patterns, based on their schedules. Massage may help relax high-strung nerves, and provide soothing support as you learn to adapt behaviors and engage in behavior-modification approaches to the disease.
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