Natural Remedies To Treat Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is a type of sleep disorder that is chronic in nature. It marks an unusual, excessive daytime drowsiness and abrupt attacks of sleep. People with narcolepsy cannot stay awake for a long time.

Narcolepsy cannot be cured. However, with the help of medications, natural remedies and certain lifestyle changes, the symptoms of this condition can be managed. These remedies may include-

A low carbohydrate and gluten free diet can be of much importance in narcolepsy. It will help in controlling glucose levels, thereby stopping the damage caused to neurons
A diet that includes protein and healthy fat is also necessary. Protein helps in formation of new cells and fat is essential for absorption of many necessary vitamins like A, D, E and K. ⁽¹⁾

• It is important to identify your natural sleep cycles and take a couple of power naps of say about 15 minutes, that can help you in staying awake for longer period during the daytime making you feel refreshed
• Narcolepsy is not curable. Hence, it becomes important to identify your sleep cycles and plan your regular sleep and power naps accordingly
  In kids, it may be even more difficult as they may face great difficulties in school and other activities that they pursue
• It is important that the head of the school and concerned teachers know and learn about this condition and help the child in coping up with this condition and not undermine or scold him ⁽¹⁾

• Studies have found a connection between vitamin D deficiency and narcolepsy and cataplexy in many people
• It is known that vitamin D deficiency can lead to extreme tiredness and pain in people. A vitamin D supplement will help in treating these symptoms
• Getting direct sunlight is essential for this cause ⁽¹⁾

• As less as 15 minutes of any form of light aerobic exercise daily can help you in staying alert through the day
• It will also help you in getting a restful and complete sleep through the night
• Exercise can also help in relieving symptoms like depression, poor sleep and brain fog
• That said however, it is not recommended to perform exercises that will harm you if you fall asleep abruptly while doing them. Also, consult with your doctor first before starting on any exercise.
• It is also advised to exercise with a friend or someone close to you, who knows about your condition and can understand and help if needed ⁽¹⁾

• Studies suggest that symptoms of ADHD that run synonymous with narcolepsy, can be manageable with supplementation of omega 3 fatty acids
• Omega 3 fatty acids can also help in improving cognitive function and other brain functions
• Including more of foods like salmon, sardines, mackerel, flaxseed, walnuts etc. that are extremely rich in omega 3fatty acids can prove to be beneficial ⁽¹⁾

• Narcolepsy is one of those conditions that stays for life. Coping up with it can be difficult at times, as it can disrupt your day to day life
• It can lead to hallucinations, anxiety and depression
• It is essential for your mental and physical well being to learn about some of the coping methods
• Talking to family and friends that understand can help you a great deal in relieving your anxiety and stress
• Talking to support groups that comprises of people suffering from a condition like yours can help in answering your questions and relieving your fears and doubts
• This may be particularly of help in children and teens who are more vulnerable to anxiety, depression and isolation ⁽¹⁾

• Therapies like massage and meditation can help in relieving stress and anxiety ⁽¹⁾

Narcolepsy is not curable. However, the symptoms can be managed with certain natural remedies and lifestyle changes, along with medication.

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Also Read:

• Impact of Narcolepsy on Patients Day to Day Life
• Can You Legally Drive If You Have Narcolepsy?
• What Happens To A Person With Narcolepsy?
• Are There Different Levels Of Narcolepsy?
• Is There A Surgery For Narcolepsy?
• Can You Be Misdiagnosed With Narcolepsy?
• Does Narcolepsy Get Worse As You Get Older?