Not everyone with cataplexy has the same triggers. They may last only a few seconds or go on for up to a few minutes.Ĭataplexy usually happens after you feel a strong emotion. Cataplectic episodes also vary in length. But unlike a seizure, you will likely remain conscious and remember everything that happens during an episode. various muscles around your body twitching without an obvious causeĬataplexy is often mistaken for a seizure when it’s more severe.head falling to the side due to neck muscle weakness.Some possible symptoms of cataplexy episodes include: This is usually when you enter college, the workforce, or other new, potentially stressful environments. Most people start to notice their symptoms as teenagers or as young adults. Symptoms of cataplexy can be different for each person. Keep reading to learn more about the symptoms of cataplexy, what causes it, and more. But this condition can be disruptive to your life and cause complications if you suddenly lose muscle control at the wrong time, such as during an important meeting, while spending time with loved ones, or when you’re driving. However, only about 1 in 2000 people have narcolepsy in the world, and those with cataplexy are even less common. hallucinations when waking up in the middle of the night (hypnopompic hallucinations).hallucinations before you fall asleep (hypnogogic hallucinations).feeling paralyzed while you’re falling asleep ( sleep paralysis).Other common symptoms of narcolepsy include: You can also have unexpected episodes of falling asleep, even in the middle of a conversation or in the middle of an activity. Narcolepsy is a neurological condition that causes extreme sleepiness during the day. You may find yourself falling over or losing control over your facial expressions.Ĭataplexy is associated with narcolepsy. This can include crying, laughing, or feeling angry. You may experience cataplexy when you feel a strong emotion or emotional sensation. Treatment involves medication and lifestyle changes.Ĭataplexy happens when your muscles suddenly go limp or significantly weaken without warning. It can look like a seizure, but it’s not. It’s associated with a condition called narcolepsy. Cataplexy is a sudden loss of muscle tone.

Cataplexy causes