Disease Comparison
Compare similarities and differences between two diseases.
Narcolepsy
Moderate
2
Symptoms
1
Causes
0
Treatments
5
FAQs
VS
Depression
Moderate
5
Symptoms
0
Causes
0
Treatments
5
FAQs
Overview
Narcolepsy
Narcolepsy is a chronic neurological disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness and an uncontrollable tendency to fall asleep during the day. Some people also experience cataplexy, a sudden temporary loss of muscle control triggered by emotions. Other features may include sleep paralysis, vivid dream-like experiences when falling asleep or waking, and disrupted nighttime sleep.
Depression
Depression is a common mental health condition characterized by persistent low mood or loss of interest or pleasure that affects daily life. It may also involve changes in sleep, appetite, energy, concentration, motivation, and feelings about oneself. Depression can vary in severity and may result from an interaction of biological, psychological, and social factors.
Symptoms
Shared
None
Only in Left Disease
Fainting Increased UrinationOnly in Right Disease
Depressed Mood Excessive Sleepiness Fatigue Irritability Mood SwingsCauses
Shared
None
Only in Left Disease
GeneticsOnly in Right Disease
None
Diagnosis
Narcolepsy
Diagnosis requires assessment of daytime sleepiness, nighttime sleep patterns, cataplexy and other symptoms. A healthcare professional may use sleep diaries and standardized sleepiness questionnaires. Overnight polysomnography can evaluate nighttime sleep and exclude other sleep disorders. A multiple sleep latency test performed during the following day can measure how quickly a person falls asleep and whether REM sleep occurs unusually early. Hypocretin testing may be considered in selected cases.
Depression
Depression is diagnosed through a clinical assessment that considers mood, interest or pleasure, sleep, appetite, energy, concentration, thoughts, and daily functioning. A clinician may also review medical history, medications, substance use, and other conditions that can cause similar symptoms.
Prevention
Narcolepsy
There is no established way to prevent most cases of narcolepsy because its underlying causes are not fully understood. Recognizing persistent excessive daytime sleepiness and seeking evaluation can help identify the disorder and reduce associated problems. People with narcolepsy should follow their treatment plan, maintain regular sleep schedules, use planned naps when advised, and take appropriate precautions around driving, operating machinery, and other activities affected by sudden sleepiness.
Depression
Depression cannot always be prevented, but regular physical activity, adequate sleep, supportive relationships, stress management, avoidance of harmful substance use, and early attention to persistent mood changes may support mental health. People with recurrent depression may benefit from an individualized prevention and treatment plan.
Risk Factors
Narcolepsy
Risk may be influenced by family history and genetic susceptibility. Having a close relative with narcolepsy may increase the likelihood of developing the disorder, although most people with narcolepsy do not have an affected close family member. Certain neurological injuries or diseases may also be associated with secondary forms of narcolepsy. The condition can begin at different ages but often starts during adolescence or young adulthood.
Depression
Risk factors include personal or family history of depression, major or prolonged stress, trauma, social isolation, chronic medical conditions, certain medications, substance use, and major life changes. Some people may also have increased vulnerability because of genetic or biological factors. Having a risk factor does not necessarily mean that a person will develop the condition.
Treatment
Narcolepsy
Treatment comparison will be available soon.
Depression
Treatment comparison will be available soon.