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

Narcolepsy is characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden episodes of muscle weakness, known as cataplexy. Individuals with narcolepsy may experience overwhelming urges to sleep during the day, and cataplexy can occur in response to strong emotions such as laughter or surprise, leading to sudden loss of muscle tone. This combination distinguishes narcolepsy from other sleep disorders, where excessive daytime sleepiness may be present but not coupled with cataplexy.

In contrast, insomnia primarily involves difficulty falling or staying asleep without the symptom of sudden muscle weakness. Restless legs syndrome is characterized by uncomfortable sensations in the legs and an irresistible urge to move them, particularly at night, rather than excessive daytime sleepiness alone. Sleep apnea is characterized by interrupted breathing during sleep, which can lead to daytime sleepiness but does not typically include muscle weakness episodes. Thus, narcolepsy is the most appropriate answer as it encompasses both key elements of excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden muscle weakness.