What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing excessive daytime sleepiness, sudden muscle weakness triggered by emotions (cataplexy), or other symptoms suggesting narcolepsy. It identifies specific genetic markers (HLA-DQ genes) that are strongly associated with narcolepsy, helping to confirm or rule out this sleep disorder. Many people use this test when their sleep problems significantly impact daily life and other sleep disorders have been ruled out.

What happens after I get my results?

You'll receive detailed doctor notes in simple language explaining what your genetic markers mean for narcolepsy risk and diagnosis. These notes include guidance on next steps, such as whether you should pursue a sleep study, consult a sleep specialist, or explore treatment options if narcolepsy is confirmed. You'll also get the standard lab report and can keep these results for your medical records, as genetic markers don't change over time.

What's included in this test?

This test measures HLA-DQB1*06:02 and related HLA-DQ genetic variants. This test analyzes your HLA-DQ genetic markers, specifically looking for variants strongly associated with narcolepsy type 1. The HLA-DQ genes are part of your immune system and certain variations are found in over 95% of people with narcolepsy with cataplexy. This genetic information helps doctors differentiate narcolepsy from other sleep disorders and guides appropriate treatment decisions.

Who should consider getting this test?

This test is important for people experiencing excessive daytime sleepiness that isn't explained by poor sleep habits or other conditions. It's especially valuable if you also have cataplexy (sudden muscle weakness with strong emotions), sleep paralysis, or vivid hallucinations when falling asleep. People with a family history of narcolepsy or those whose doctors suspect narcolepsy should also consider this test.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Key symptoms include overwhelming daytime sleepiness even after a full night's sleep, sudden loss of muscle tone triggered by laughter or strong emotions, vivid dream-like hallucinations when falling asleep or waking up, and episodes of sleep paralysis. You might also experience automatic behaviors where you continue activities while partially asleep or have disrupted nighttime sleep despite being exhausted during the day.

What is the HLA-DQ gene and why does it matter for narcolepsy?

HLA-DQ genes help your immune system distinguish between your own cells and foreign substances. Certain variants of these genes are found in nearly all people with narcolepsy type 1, suggesting the condition may involve the immune system mistakenly attacking brain cells that regulate sleep. Testing for these genetic markers provides strong supporting evidence for a narcolepsy diagnosis, though it's not the only diagnostic tool used.

What does a positive result mean?

A positive result means you carry the HLA-DQ genetic markers associated with narcolepsy. However, this doesn't automatically mean you have narcolepsy, as these markers are also found in about 20-30% of the general population without the condition. The test is most useful when combined with your symptoms, sleep study results, and clinical evaluation to support a narcolepsy diagnosis.

What does a negative result mean?

A negative result means you don't carry the HLA-DQ markers strongly associated with narcolepsy type 1, making this diagnosis much less likely. However, it doesn't completely rule out narcolepsy type 2 (without cataplexy), which has a weaker genetic association. Your doctor may recommend other sleep studies or evaluations to identify what's causing your symptoms.

How can I manage narcolepsy symptoms naturally?

Maintaining a strict sleep schedule with consistent bedtimes and wake times can help regulate your sleep-wake cycle. Taking short, scheduled 15-20 minute naps during the day can reduce overwhelming sleepiness. Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and heavy meals before bedtime, along with creating a dark, cool sleep environment, may improve nighttime sleep quality. Regular exercise earlier in the day can also help, though you should always work with a sleep specialist for comprehensive management.

Do I need to retest my HLA-DQ genes?

No, you don't need to retest because your genetic markers don't change throughout your life. This is a one-time test that provides permanent information about your genetic predisposition. However, if you're being evaluated for narcolepsy, your doctor may order other tests like sleep studies or cerebrospinal fluid analysis to monitor your condition or confirm diagnosis.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Narcolepsy Genetic Test - HLA-DQ Sleep Disorder Check

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

[email protected]

Genetic Test for Excessive Sleepiness and Narcolepsy Risk

HLA-DQ Typing for Narcolepsy

90 day happiness guarantee

Prescription & fees included

Easy to understand results

Fast & convenient

90 day happiness guarantee

Prescription & fees included

Easy to understand results

Fast & convenient

What's this test for?

What's included in this test?

What happens after I get my results?

Here’s why 1,000,000+ customers chose us for affordable hassle-free private blood testing.

Genetic Test for Excessive Sleepiness and Narcolepsy Risk

90 day happiness guarantee

Prescription & fees included

Easy to understand results

Fast & convenient

1,000,000+ blood tests later, here's what our customers say

Ask Me Anything

Genetic Test for Excessive Sleepiness and Narcolepsy Risk

HLA-DQ Typing for Narcolepsy

90 day happiness guarantee

Prescription & fees included

Easy to understand results

Fast & convenient

90 day happiness guarantee

Prescription & fees included

Easy to understand results

Fast & convenient

What's this test for?

What's included in this test?

What happens after I get my results?

Here’s why 1,000,000+ customers chose us for affordable hassle-free private blood testing.

Genetic Test for Excessive Sleepiness and Narcolepsy Risk

1,000,000+ blood tests later, here's what our customers say

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Ask Me Anything

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