Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder. One of its primary symptoms is excessive daytime sleepiness. Someone with narcolepsy can fall asleep without warning. A person with narcolepsy can fall asleep during any kind of activity. He or she may suffer from frightening hallucinations as well. If you live in Bradenton, FL, and believe you may have narcolepsy, visit Dr. Jeremy McConnell of Florida Sleep Specialists. He can help you with narcolepsy as well as other kinds of sleep disorders. Keep reading to learn more about treatment for narcolepsy.
Prescription Medication to Treat Narcolepsy
Although there is no cure for narcolepsy, your doctor can use prescription medication to treat it. The medication used for treatment depends on your symptoms. For example, some narcolepsy sufferers experience cataplexy. Cataplexy occurs when you have sudden weakness in the knees, face, or neck. You may also experience slurred speech. Cataplexy is triggered by anger, laughter, or surprise. Your doctor may prescribe antidepressants to suppress abnormal REM, also known as rapid eye movement.
If you suffer from excessive daytime sleepiness, also known as EDS, your doctor in Bradenton, FL, will prescribe stimulants to keep you awake. Dexamphetamine, modafinil, and methylphenidate are common prescription stimulants that doctors give patients who suffer from narcolepsy.
Lifestyle Changes to Treat Narcolepsy
Lifestyle changes are another important way to treat narcolepsy. Cultivating healthy sleep habits may help decrease narcolepsy symptoms. Scheduling daytime naps and eating a healthy diet can also help you combat narcolepsy. Other common lifestyle changes include:
- Striving to get at least seven hours of sleep each night.
- Avoiding alcohol consumption.
- Avoiding caffeine consumption during the late afternoon or at night.
- Avoiding large meals in the evening.
- Creating a relaxing and quiet environment in your bedroom.
Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder that interferes with every facet of your life. It negatively affects your general health, school, work, your social life, and your emotional wellbeing. If you live in Bradenton, FL, schedule an appointment with Dr. Jeremy McConnell of Florida Sleep Specialists to learn more about narcolepsy and how you can overcome it. Contact our office by calling 941-792-8383.