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Although those with narcolepsy can't do a lot to change how others may view them, they can do a lot to manage their disorder. Here's how.Nap. "Sometimes narcolepsy can be managed entirely by naps alone," says neurologist Eveline Honig, M.D., Director of the Narcolepsy Network. Although it may sound a bit odd to prescribe naps for someone who falls asleep all the time, sleep experts suggest you take two naps a day -- one at lunchtime and one around 4:00 P.M. The naps should last no more than 15 to 30 minutes. That's enough to improve your alertness significantly, while longer naps can make you feel groggy.
Stay on a regular schedule. If you keep to a routine, it will help that little switch in your brain know whether it should be on or off.
Consider meds. Stimulants like methylphenidate (Ritalin) and modafinil (Provigil) frequently help you stay alert.
Watch what goes in your mouth. In general, carbs make you sleepy while protein makes you more alert, says Dr. Honig. The best thing to do is keep a food diary noting the food you eat, the time you eat it, what you were doing afterward, and whether you had any subsequent symptoms. Then simply avoid foods that you know make you sleepy.
Avoid alcohol. It screws up everything. If your brain has trouble recognizing normal sleep/wake signals, alcohol is the wild card that will confuse it forever.
Join the narcolepsy network. Their Web site and newsletter offer links to the latest information, research, and other types of support around the country. They also sponsor a national "sleep in."
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