If the system is damaged, it can result in sleep problems, lethargy, or coma.
It also can play a role innarcolepsyand degenerative brain disorders such asParkinson’s diseaseandprogressive supranuclear palsy (PSP).
This will give way to high-voltage, slow-firing brain waves that facilitatenon-REMsleep.
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Parkinson’s disease also can affect RAS function.
As neurons break down as a result of the disease, they fire less frequently.
Not only does this affect motor function, it can affect sleep quality by disrupting the REM cycle.
With PSP, neurons in the brainstem and cerebral cortex develop abnormal clumps of protein called tangles.
These tangles interfere with RAS pathways and contribute to cognitive impairment and sleep-wake dysregulation in people with PSP.
Examples include:
People with narcolepsy are often treated with stimulants such as modafinil or armodafinil.
Newer stimulants include solriamfetol and pitolisant.
Sodium oxybate is highly effective for treatment ofcataplexy, a feature of narcolepsy.
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