Live With Narcolepsy

• 1). Take a nap whenever you feel that a narcolepsy attack is impending. If you start to feel oncoming symptoms, such as a loss of motor function, fatigue or visual and auditory hallucinations, stop and find a place to rest.
  
  
• 2). Avoid being alone whenever you feel that a sleep attack is possible. Ask someone you trust to keep an eye on you and be ready to assist you if you need to find a location to take a nap.
  
  
• 3). Make sure you have taken all of your prescribed medication before you put yourself into a situation in which falling asleep unexpectedly could be dangerous. Discuss the effectiveness of your medication with your doctor, so he can advise you about whether it is safe for you to perform certain tasks, such as driving and working.
  
  
• 4). Drive only if you have been cleared by your doctor to do so. Operate vehicles and heavy machinery only if you have taken your medication, consulted your doctor and napped before getting behind the wheel. If you feel at risk while you are driving, stop frequently and exercise.
  
  
• 5). Inform those around you of your condition and fill them in on the dangers you might encounter as a narcoleptic. Consider going through counseling with your friends and loved ones, helping them to be better-informed about your condition.
  
  
• 6). Investigate more ways to live with narcolepsy by visiting HealthScout.com (see Resources below).
  
  
• 7). Learn key points about narcolepsy by visiting the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services website (see Resources below).