Healthy Habits - Narcolepsy

 Good, quality sleep is integral for one’s physical and mental health, but for people with narcolepsy – this can be a challenge. Narcolepsy is a chronic neurological disorder that affects the brain's ability to control sleep-wake cycles¹ and often results in poor quality sleep.

 

Typically, during a 24-hour day, people have periods of sleep and periods of wakefulness but for people living with narcolepsy, periods of sleep are not consolidated – meaning they experience excessive sleepiness during the day and often have trouble sleeping at night - which results in them missing out on continuous, restorative sleep that often makes one feel refreshed.

 

A disrupted sleep cycle can mean a disrupted life. During the day, excessive daytime sleepiness can mean missing out on work, school, and time with family and friends. Because this condition is misunderstood, or mistaken for other conditions, those with narcolepsy often also experience delays in receiving a proper diagnosis and treatment.

 

For those who have been diagnosed, fortunately there are treatments available to help manage symptoms of excessive daytime sleepiness and cataplexy – two hallmark and disruptive symptoms of narcolepsy. People can also take an active role in managing their sleep-wake cycle by tracking their sleep patterns to help give them and their doctor a better picture of their days and nights to help spot trends and make changes accordingly.

 

There are also lifestyle changes people can make which include:

Ø  Going to bed & waking up at same time every day to help train your body & brain to sleep at the best times for you.

Ø  Trying not to eat or drink before bed, especially caffeinated beverages or alcohol.

Ø  Staying active - exercise during the day can make your body feel a greater need for sleep at night.

 

In this interview, Dr. Asim Roy, M.D. brings awareness to the impact of narcolepsy and offer insights on treatment options. He is joined by Katie who has narcolepsy and shares her experience with the condition and how it’s affected her life.

 

Interview is courtesy: Avadel Pharmaceuticals