Study Found That Narcolepsy is an Autoimmune Disease   Narcolepsy is a chronic sleep disorder that affects nearly 1 out of every 2,000 people in the United States. People with narcolepsy usually have periods of extreme tiredness during the day and are prone to fall asleep at inappropriate times. Oftentimes these 'spontaneous naps' will occur while working, watching TV or otherwise already engaged in an activity. Stanford University conducted a study on narcolepsy that resulted in a huge change for narcolepsy: due to the study, it is now considered an autoimmune disease. The study consisted of full genetic scans of 1,800 people with a specific gene that is usually present with narcolepsy, the human leukocyte antigen, otherwise known as the HLA gene. The scientists found that 1,000 people did not have narcolepsy, although 800 did. After studying further they found that those with narcolepsy had a specific genetic variation. This genetic variation affects receptors on the T cells, which are essential to the immune system. Finally, they determined that narcolepsy is an autoimmune disease condition, because the body's immune system is responsible for attacking its own cells and creating narcolepsy. This new development may help researchers understand more about narcolepsy and autoimmune diseases in general. It may also help them develop more effective treatments. If scientists can figure out how to block the specific receptor that causes narcolepsy, they may be able to stop the disease, though this would be most helpful for a person predisposed to narcolepsy, or just starting to show signs of the disease. Most longtime patients of the disease have already developed brain damage. About the Author: Tim Moore is a former Social Security Disability Examiner in North Carolina, has been interviewed by the NY Times and the LA Times on the disability system, and is an Accredited Disability Representative (ADR) in North Carolina. For assistance on a disability application or Appeal in NC, click here. Most popular topics on SSDRC.com Social Security Disability in North Carolina Common Mistakes to avoid after being denied for Disability Tips to Prepare for Filing for Social Security Disability or SSI Advice to Win SSD and SSI Benefit Claims Social Security Disability SSI Questions What is the difference between Social Security Disability and SSI? How to get disability for depression Getting disability for fibromyalgia SSI disability for children with ADHD What is the Application Process for Social Security Disability and SSI? Social Security Disability SSI Exam tips More Social Security Disability SSI Questions What makes you eligible for Social Security Disability or SSI? Related pages: How many hours can you work if you are receiving Social Security Disability? Decisions on disability applications, fully and partially favorable How do you get Social Security Disability? How to file for disability in Minnesota Changing disability attorneys Social Security Disability SSI and how severe a medical condition must be Social Security Disability hearing, vocational expert, judge Enough Work Credits For Social Security Disability Benefits? Memory loss and filing for disability Applying for Disability with high blood pressure Will my children get benefits if I get approved for disability? How to file for disability in Louisiana Proving Functional Limitations and why this is Important on a Disability Case Filing for disability and ankylosing spondylitis How much time for a decision on a disability claim?