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Sleep Disorders - Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder that makes people fall asleep at unpredictable times,  since it affects the part of the brain that regulates when people sleep and when they are awake. It is a very dangerous condition, since sufferers may fall asleep during potentially dangerous situations, such as when driving.

Narcolepsy is believed to be a genetic disorder, and it is a lifelong condition. However, with the proper treatment, sufferers of narcolepsy can lead full and for the most part normal lives.

Treatment of narcolepsy involves use of medication, such as antidepressants, stimulants and sodium oxybate. There are also behavioral changes that can help narcoleptics, including:

-scheduled sleep periods: these include regularly scheduled naps in the day

-avoiding caffeine, nicotine and alcohol

-regular exercise

-avoiding potentially dangerous activities

-wearing a medical alert bracelet

-breaking up large projects into small tasks

-using a tape recorder in the event that you fall asleep during meetings and conversations

-tell employers, coworkers and friends so they can help you if you need it

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