Reasonable Hypothesis SOP [1] | 11 of 2022 |
Balance of Probabilities SOP [2] | 12 of 2022 |
SOP Bulletin 228 [3]
This is a sleep disorder characterised by attacks of daytime sleepiness. Other manifestations that are present to a variable extent are cataplexy (sudden, transient emotionally-triggered loss of muscle tone and weakness), sleep paralysis (inability to move for 1 or 2 minutes immediately after waking), and hypnagogic hallucinations (hallucinations occurring during the transition from wakefulness to sleep).
This is a complicated diagnosis. The diagnosis may be suspected based on history and examination, but confirmation requires formal sleep studies (both polysomnography (clinic or home based) and a multiple sleep latency test) and an opinion from a qualified sleep physician.
* another SOP applies
Onset is most commonly in the teens or early 20s. The condition typically presents with daytime sleepiness +/- manifestations of the other symptoms described above. Symptoms tend to worsen over a period of months to years after initial onset and then stabilise.
The only SOP worsening factor is for inability to obtain appropriate clinical management. Management consists of both non-pharmacolocial measures (e.g. appropriate sleep schedules and naps, psychological support) and pharmacological therapy with agents that promote wakefulness and alertness. The condition is typically lifelong and does not tend to worsen with age.
Links
[1] http://www.rma.gov.au/assets/SOP/2022/a24c9c46e8/011.pdf
[2] http://www.rma.gov.au/assets/SOP/2022/9e5c6837e4/012.pdf
[3] https://clik.dva.gov.au/system/files/media/SOP%20Bulletin%20228.pdf