Lifestyle Changes to Manage Narcolepsy
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Most people with narcolepsy find that certain lifestyle changes can help them improve their daytime alertness.
General Guidelines for Managing Narcolepsy
Get Sufficient Nighttime Sleep
It’s important for you to regulate your sleep in order to optimize your alertness during the day. Try to get about eight hours of sleep each night.
For more information on getting a good night of sleep, click here .
Take Planned Naps During the Day
Scheduling regular naps can help you remain alert. Some people find that two to three short (10-15 minute) naps scheduled throughout the day are very helpful; others find that one longer afternoon nap refreshes them enough to finish out their day with minimal sleepiness. Try each of these methods to see which works better for you.
Avoid Substances That Can Interfere With Alertness or Refreshing Sleep
Be careful when drinking caffeinated beverages or alcohol, or using nicotine products. Alcohol can increase your drowsiness and can interfere with getting a good night of sleep. Nicotine and caffeine are stimulants and may interfere with getting refreshing sleep at night or during daytime naps.
Exercise Regularly
Exercise can increase your energy level and improve your alertness during the day. However, do not exercise within three hours of the time you’re planning to go to bed for the night. Exercise can boost your energy to the degree that it prevents you from falling asleep.
Before starting an exercise program, check with your doctor about any possible medical problems you may have that would limit your exercise program.
For more information on starting an exercise program, click here .
References:
Goetz CG, Pappert EJ. Textbook of Clinical Neurology. Philadelphia, PA: WB Saunders Company; 1999.
Narcolepsy. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. National Institutes of Health website. Available at: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/nar/nar_what.html. Updated November 2008. Accessed April 7, 2009.
Last reviewed February 2009 by Rimas Lukas, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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