This condition causes loss of muscle tone while you’re awake. Muscle weakness occurs in certain parts of your body or in your whole body.
Cataplexy may make your head nod or make it hard for you to speak. Muscle weakness also may make your knees weak or cause you to drop things you’re holding. Some people lose all muscle control and fall.
Strong emotions, such as laughter or excitement, often trigger this symptom. It usually lasts a few seconds or minutes. During this time, you’re usually awake.
Cataplexy may occur weeks to years after you first start to have extreme daytime sleepiness.