Narcolepsy can be caused by a range of factors, including genetic inheritance and hormonal change during menopause, but in the specific context of medical negligence can be due to infection or certain pharmaceutical drugs.

It is known that a streptococcal infection can trigger narcolepsy, hence if this type of infection has been caused by a breach of duty of care by health service staff, this might be deemed narcolepsy due to medical negligence.

It is also believed narcolepsy can be caused by the administration of specific drugs used for vaccination.

Unfortunately, narcolepsy cannot be cured; however with the correct medication and behavioural changes, it can be managed effectively. Many patients see significant improvement with the aid of counselling and support groups, scheduling sleep periods, avoiding stimulants, breaking down larger tasks into smaller ones, eating a healthy and nutritious diet, exercising, and finding ways to relax and manage emotions.

It is important to remember that many others are dealing with the effects of narcolepsy, and, therefore, you are certainly not alone. By seeking guidance and support from experts in this medical field, and people living with narcolepsy, you can learn to manage the symptoms, if only partially.

You may be able to bring a claim for narcolepsy due to medical negligence depending on the circumstances.  To prove medical negligence, it must be shown:

• The standard of care you received fell below that of a competent health professional of the same level and;

• This negligence caused damage or injury.

If you have reason to believe you have suffered damage or injury as a result of a mistake made by a healthcare provider, we may be able to assist you.