Sleep Attacks: The Sneaky Side of Narcolepsy

Waking Up Tired: Narcolepsy Symptoms Explained Episode Two

A sleep attack or micro sleep doesn’t come upon a person with narcolepsy with no warning. They will already be feeling quite sleepy. Unless they realise they are drifting off, they will fall briefly into a micro sleep.

In this episode, Jana, shares her powerful journey living with narcolepsy type 1 in Australia. Jana opens up about falling asleep mid-conversation and micro sleeps behind the wheel. She discusses the subtle signs and emotional toll. She also highlights the safety risks of sleep attacks, which are often misunderstood and misdiagnosed.

Jana reflects on the years before her diagnosis. She felt the shame of being dismissed by doctors. Then, she experienced the relief of finally understanding what was happening to her body. Her story is raw and relatable. It is a vital reminder that narcolepsy is more than just being tired. It is a neurological condition that demands awareness and empathy.

What You’ll Hear:

– What sleep attacks (micro sleeps) feel like in real life 

– The emotional impact of delayed diagnosis 

– Subtle warning signs Jana has learned to recognise 

– Driving safety and the reality of living with narcolepsy 

– How shame and misunderstanding can shape the diagnostic journey

Published by Di Spillane

My name is Di Spillane and I am Living With Narcolepsy (N1) in Australia. Despite having lived with this disorder since childhood, I wasn't diagnosed with narcolepsy + cataplexy (N1) until late in life at the age of 49. Every person has their own personal journey, this website is where I will share my story about living with narcolepsy & cataplexy, and my long journey to receiving a diagnosis. I will share information and tips for managing day to day life in an effort to help others who live with narcolepsy, help those who suspect that they might have a sleep disorder by providing information about my experiences, and help the narcolepsy community by advocating, educating, and raising public awareness of this debilitating rare sleep disorder.

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