Is Narcolepsy A Disability?

In this article, we'll look at whether narcolepsy is considered a disability. We'll explain what narcolepsy is, how it affects those who live with it and explore its prevalence in the UK. We’ll also examine whether narcolepsy qualifies as a disability under UK law, and look into current treatment options, including whether there is a cure.

Key Takeaways

Here are the 5 biggest takeaways from this article about narcolepsy:

• Narcolepsy is classified as a disability under the Equality Act 2010, protecting those affected.

• Narcolepsy significantly impacts daily life, causing symptoms like excessive daytime sleepiness, sudden sleep attacks, cataplexy (muscle weakness), sleep paralysis, and vivid hallucinations.

• Narcolepsy is relatively rare, affecting around 1 in every 2,500 people in the UK, though it is often misdiagnosed or goes unrecognised, especially in children.

• There is no cure for narcolepsy, but symptoms can be managed through lifestyle changes, regular naps and medications like Modafinil, which helps maintain alertness during the day.

• Narcolepsy can develop at any age, with peak onset times around 15 and 36 years old.

How does narcolepsy affect somebody?

Narcolepsy is a neurological condition that disrupts the brain’s ability to regulate sleep-wake cycles. While someone with narcolepsy may feel refreshed after waking up, they often experience overwhelming daytime sleepiness and may suddenly fall asleep during activities such as driving, eating, or having a conversation. 

According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, the condition can also cause other symptoms such as cataplexy. This involves sudden muscle weakness, sleep paralysis and vivid hallucinations. These symptoms can have a significant impact on daily life, making routine activities difficult to manage. It can also affect a person’s ability to work, study and socialise. Without proper treatment, narcolepsy can severely affect both physical and mental well-being.

Is narcolepsy a disability?

Yes, narcolepsy is classified as a hidden disability under the Equality Act 2010. This means that people with narcolepsy have protection from discrimination in the workplace and other areas, such as when it comes to buying insurance. Employers are required to make adjustments to the work life of people with narcolepsy, such as allowing flexible work hours or allowing nap breaks to help manage symptoms. This ensures people with narcolepsy are supported in the workplace.

In 2022, a petition was started in an attempt to have narcolepsy and cataplexy (a symptom of narcolepsy that causes muscle weakness or paralysis triggered by strong emotions) recognised as disabilities, however, the petition was unsuccessful as the Equality Act 2010 already outlined that they were. 

The Equality Act 2010 states that “you’re disabled if you have a physical or mental impairment that has a ‘substantial’ and ‘long-term’ negative effect on your ability to do normal daily activities.” As well as this, access to disability benefits is based on the impact the condition has on daily life. The response to the 2022 petition stated that “people who have narcolepsy, where this has a ‘substantial’ and ‘long-term’ negative effect on their ability to do normal daily activities, would be protected under the Equality Act.”

How prevalent is narcolepsy?

According to Narcolepsy UK, the condition affects around 1 in every 2,500 people. This is around 30,000 people in the UK. The National Organization of Rare Disorders does however raise the point that narcolepsy often goes misdiagnosed or unrecognised so determining the actual number of cases can be difficult. Despite the condition being relatively rare it can significantly impact a person’s quality of life due to the variety of symptoms it causes.

Narcolepsy can develop at any age, however, there are two peak periods at which it is most noticeable. These are at 15 and 36. The National Organization of Rare Disorders believes that the condition often goes undiagnosed in children, meaning treatment can be late or non-existent.

Is there a cure for narcolepsy?

Unfortunately, as outlined by the NHS, there is currently no cure for narcolepsy. However, there are ways that you can manage the symptoms of the condition. Making changes to your sleep habits, taking regular short naps throughout the day or taking specific medications can significantly reduce the impact the condition has on your daily life. One medication that can help with Narcolepsy is Modafinil. 

Modafinil is a medication commonly prescribed to narcolepsy sufferers to help manage symptoms. It works by stimulating the brain, helping individuals to stay awake and alert during the day. It is particularly effective at reducing the likelihood of sudden sleep attacks. If you require Modafinil you can purchase it online from EU Meds. 

Sources

I know/work with someone with narcolepsy - Narcolepsy UK

Rejected petition Include Narcolepsy with Cataplexy as a disability - UK Government & Parliament