Certified Polysomnographic Technician (CPSGT) Practice Exam 2025 - Free CPSGT Practice Questions and Study Guide

Narcolepsy is a chronic sleep disorder that typically begins during adolescence and young adulthood, with symptoms commonly appearing between the ages of 15 and 25. The onset often includes excessive daytime sleepiness, cataplexy, sleep paralysis, and hypnagogic hallucinations.

This age range for the first manifestation is significant because the symptoms can greatly impact academic performance, social interactions, and overall quality of life during a formative time in a person’s development. While narcolepsy can technically present later in life, the majority of cases diagnosed are in adolescents and young adults.

Understanding this timeline is essential for those in the field as it underscores the importance of early recognition and intervention, which can substantially improve management and help individuals cope with the challenges posed by the disorder.