8 replies to this topic

[avery929]

Does anyone have information regarding narcolepsy and pregnancy, specifically what to do about treatment options?

Thanks

[NannyMissB]

Avery-
I was undiagnosed when I was pregnant 17 years ago. When I was finally diagnosed four years ago it all made sense. My current treatment is the same as when I was pregnant- no drugs, just naps and perserverance. My case is not as severe as most - I only have about six to ten sleep attacks a day - so I can get by without meds. Be sure you ask your docs what they think. Luck to you...

B

[sleepycj]

the only option that is safe and available is naps and a "good" night of sleep. these we all know to be few and far between. I have a great support group of family and friends to assist when I am having an extremly sleepy day, but that doesn't solve all. I am so glad I made the decision I did to have a child....now it is harder to give up the meds. Maybe just one is just enough.

[sandkelly]

I was not diagnosed until after my daughter was born. And I read the other posts regarding naps and a good night of sleep which I think is excellent advice.
But I would also like to add that exercise and nutrition are a very important part of my treatment and so if you are pregnant then it becomes even more important. What kind of exercise do you do and what do you like to eat?
I would like to add that it is nice to have a place to come together and
chat about this narcolepsy we deal with so we can maybe help each other.

[sweetdreams]

Hi Avery,
My name is MJ and I am 6months pregnant with my third child. I was diagnosed with narcolepsy when I was 27 and I am now 41. All three pregnancies I have been off medication. It was almost as though my narcolepsy got better during the pregnancy. I have few sleep attacks but do get very tired and sleep 10-12 hrs. at night. I also take naps as often as I can. I did want to mention, when I became pregnant this time, my neurologist who is a sleep specialist offered to prescribe me codene to take during pregnanncy. She said it heilps with the sleep attacks and she has had many pt's who were pregnant use it with much success. I chose not to take it but you might want to look into it for yourself. Good Luck!

[sleepycj]

I also did exercise and eat 3 full meals a day plus helathy snacks. I was teaching at the time and on my breaks used the pool. It is a great exercise. It works all the body parts without impact on your joints. I loved being able to workout. I also try to walk at least 3 times a week now. My son is 2 and he is very used to getting in his stroller and going for walks. I am considering having another and do agree that I did feel great during my pregnancy. It may have been a combination of the prenantal vitamins and the extra hormones during pregnancy. Making the decision to go off my meds and have a child was the best decision of my life. I also stayed off my meds for 6mts after to continue breast feeding. That was a little hard at times but it was worth it.
I also think that this is a great way to find out and share information.

[Protectionlady]

i was also undiagnosed when I was pregnant with my two girls. I did get very tired easily, and take lots of naps. My body acted as though i was having sugar attacks. I had been told I had hypoglocemia. I would break out in sweats, shake, etc. BUT, it was a nurological problem, the narcolepsy. NO sugar. I dind't know it at the time, but it did leave everyone pondering. If you have the family support, then rest, rest, rest, and eat lots of fruits, water, and lay off the meds of course if you don't have to take them to get by. I sure wish I knew what caused this. Good luck with you and your child(ren).

[Protectionlady]

It works all the body parts without impact on your joints. I loved being able to workout. I also try to walk at least 3 times a week now. My son is 2 and he is very used to getting in his stroller and going for walks. I am considering having another and do agree that I did feel great during my pregnancy.



Does anyone else have problems with their joints? I get cysts in my wrists, my hip is out of alignment along with my back and neck. My elbows hurt so bad sometimes I can't lift the milk. Anyone with me?

[Lovemyhusband]

Hello everyone. I was just wondering if we had any new additions since this post was started?