Strange story: Scientist collapses 100 times / day because of laughing

Everyone knows "a smile with ten tonic scales", but the opposite is true for Claire Allen, the scientist. On average, she can be paralyzed and fall asleep to 100 times a day just because she laughs.

Dr. Claire Allen is struggling with numbness.Photo: Daily Mail

Dr. Allen, 35 - a researcher working for the British Antarctic Survey, is said to have a rare, extreme disease of sleep disturbance: numbness. It made her lose control of her body, unable to see or move, and fell into a deep sleep state even though she was still aware of what was going on.

These "attacks " usually last from 30 seconds to 5 minutes. They can appear due to Dr. Allen's reaction to fear, shock or laugh. In particular, chuckling even the strongest agent " felled " her.

Once, while crossing the street with a friend and friend who was suddenly funny, Allen laughed and immediately collapsed about 3 minutes before traffic.

Speaking to reporters on November 3, Dr. Allen reaffirmed: " I am really aware of how serious I am. Attacks come from any amazing emotions or shock. , but the smile is the strongest agent ".

Dr. Allen had to give up driving. She was paralyzed every time she approached the goddaughter because she always seemed extremely excited.

Allen wakes 20-30 times every night. However, there is a new drug called Xyrem that can allow this scientist to enjoy a normal night's sleep as well as help her control her problem.

An estimated 250,000 people in the UK have narcolepsy. Many of them are still undiagnosed. Dr. John Shneerson, an industry expert said, Allen-like patients have always avoided relationships and even bathed.