Narcolepsy

Nurses General Nursing

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What do they do to treat Narcolepsy...

I had a sleep study and they are thinking I might have it.. I don't fall asleep at weird times.. I just stay tired all the time and could sleep all day no problem... I have had this problem for about 6 or 7 years, but I have noticed it being more bothersome since nursing school, and now since working night shift..

Just curious as to what can be done to help..

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What do they do to treat Narcolepsy...

I had a sleep study and they are thinking I might have it.. I don't fall asleep at weird times.. I just stay tired all the time and could sleep all day no problem... I have had this problem for about 6 or 7 years, but I have noticed it being more bothersome since nursing school, and now since working night shift..

Just curious as to what can be done to help..

Hello There,

I have the same problem that you are talking about; I don't just fall asleep driving or anything but I am always tired. When I had my sleep study, I didn't have any apnea during the night but during the daytime nap study I was alseep within 3 minutes every time they let me lay down. I also carry a diagnosis though of Fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue. Anyway, my Doc just started me on Ritalin. I know it may sound strange because in children it calms them down but it does the opposite in adults. Anyway, another good drug for Narcolepsy that gives energy is Provigil and I go back to my Doc tomorrow and hopefully he will try me on that one. I don't think the Ritalin is helping much.

Just curious?? Do you have many aches and pains around your joints?

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Well the only thing achey on me is my lower back....

The thought of being diagnosed with Narcolepsy is kinda scary.... Don't know why but it just seems like that comes with a bad stigma.. and I know some states are picky about letting people drive.. Luckily mine isn't.. And I don't have a problem driving.. I just stay tired. And some days I feel good...

On my nap test, the lady said I fell asleep really quick and I jumped into REM sleep and dreams in 3 of the naps fast...

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Thanks for replying by the way!! :)

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Specializes in Pediatrics :).

I know this is an old thread, but I thought I would revive it...

My question is slightly different-and please be honest-how do you feel about working with nurses (or other health professionals) with narcolepsy? If you have narcolepsy, how do you cope?

Thanks for your replies!

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