Lifestyle Adjustments
There are a number of adjustments and adaptations people with narcolepsy can make in their lives that can positively impact symptoms and quality of life. Generally speaking, the more a person becomes involved in his/her own treatment the more control they feel over the disorder and their lives.
- Practice Good Sleep Hygiene to impose and strengthen a regular sleep/wake cycle
- Limit Consumption of stimulating foods, beverages, alcohol and tobacco, especially several hours before sleep and naps
- Exercise to develop strength and endurance and improve metabolism. All of these help to reduce and combat sleepiness and helps a person to get better quality sleep.
- Let Natural and/or Simulated Sunlight Work for You. Modern science has devised special lights that simulate sunlight, stimulating the brain to produce serotonin and norepinephrine, brain chemicals that give us a positive feeling and promote wakefulness.
- Schedule Naps, Work, and Activities to maintain regularity in your life
- Keep a To-Do List to stay organized
- Seek support through Support Groups and Narcolepsy Network’s closed Facebook group to share issues, coping mechanisms, stories, information and to feel accepted
The ideas presented on this page are provided for educational purposes only and do not constitute a medical diagnosis, treatment, or advice. Anyone using the information provided does so at their own risk. It is advised that anyone wishing to put any of the following ideas into practice checks with their treating physician first. Narcolepsy Network, Inc. does not endorse or vouch for the completeness, reliability, or accuracy of any person or entity referred to or linked to on its website.