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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Can Narcolepsy Be Misdiagnosed As ADD Or ADHD, Considering The Family History?

I just find out I have Narcolepsy less then a year ago. I also have Bi-Polar and more. My worry is my oldest son. It's been like watching myself growing up. Back then, parents didn't know the things they know now. I was going to make sure I did what I could as a parent. He was said to be ADD NOT ADHD. Now he is 22 and still know peace for him. Are we over looking Narcolepsy?
Fri, 17 Jan 2014
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Addiction Medicine Specialist,  's  Response
Hi,

Yes, narcolepsy and other sleep disorders can be misdiagnosed as ADHD, especially ADD. Simply explained, people who are not sleeping well at night are likely to be inattentive during the day. In my opinion, your son should be reassessed for any sleep disorder if he is not benefiting from treatment for ADD. Classical cases of narcolepsy with typical attacks of cataplexy are easier to diagnose but in most other people, a polysomnography has to be done. Please discuss this with his doctor.

Hope this is of help. Best wishes.
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Can Narcolepsy Be Misdiagnosed As ADD Or ADHD, Considering The Family History?

Hi, Yes, narcolepsy and other sleep disorders can be misdiagnosed as ADHD, especially ADD. Simply explained, people who are not sleeping well at night are likely to be inattentive during the day. In my opinion, your son should be reassessed for any sleep disorder if he is not benefiting from treatment for ADD. Classical cases of narcolepsy with typical attacks of cataplexy are easier to diagnose but in most other people, a polysomnography has to be done. Please discuss this with his doctor. Hope this is of help. Best wishes.