Which sleep disorder is characterized by uncontrollable sleep attacks and lapses into REM sleep?

Which sleep disorder is characterized by uncontrollable sleep attacks and lapses into REM sleep?

• A. Jet lag
• B. NREM sleep
• C. Hypnagogic sensations
• D. Narcolepsy

Answer: (D)

This item tests understanding of narcolepsy, a sleep–wake regulation disorder. The defining feature is sudden, irresistible sleep attacks during the day coupled with rapid intrusion into REM sleep, often within minutes of falling asleep. This REM intrusion can bring dream-like experiences and, in some cases, sudden muscle weakness (cataplexy) or sleep paralysis. Jet lag describes temporary circadian disruption after crossing time zones, not daytime sleep attacks. NREM sleep refers to the non-REM stages of normal sleep, not a disorder. Hypnagogic sensations are vivid hallucinations that can occur at sleep onset, but they are symptoms rather than the defining pattern of narcolepsy.

This item tests understanding of narcolepsy, a sleep–wake regulation disorder. The defining feature is sudden, irresistible sleep attacks during the day coupled with rapid intrusion into REM sleep, often within minutes of falling asleep. This REM intrusion can bring dream-like experiences and, in some cases, sudden muscle weakness (cataplexy) or sleep paralysis.

Jet lag describes temporary circadian disruption after crossing time zones, not daytime sleep attacks. NREM sleep refers to the non-REM stages of normal sleep, not a disorder. Hypnagogic sensations are vivid hallucinations that can occur at sleep onset, but they are symptoms rather than the defining pattern of narcolepsy.