Scientists Make New Discovery About 'Cataplexy'

Normally muscles contract in order to support the body. In a rare condition known as cataplexy, though, the body's muscles "fall asleep" and become involuntarily paralyzed. Cataplexy is incapacitating because it leaves the affected individual awake, but either fully or partially paralyzed. It is one of the bizarre symptoms of the sleep disorder called narcolepsy. "Cataplexy is characterized by muscle paralysis during cognitive awareness, but we didn't understand ...