Insufficient Sleep Sleep Fragmentation Narcolepsy Recurrent Hypersomnias

Non-Pharmalogic Strategies Pharmalogic Treatment Sleep Disorder Summary

Structured Nocturnal Sleep: Patients with primary EDS complain of disrupted nocturnal sleep. These patients should be instructed to maintain a structured bedtime and arising time, despite the quality or continuity of their nocturnal sleep. If the patient experiences wakeful periods during the night, he or she may arise briefly, perform a sedentary activity such as reading, then return to bed and attempt to sleep. The time scheduled for nocturnal sleep should generally be 8 hours or more.

Structured Daytime Naps: In addition to stimulant medications, naps may provide an important treatment for primary EDS. Naps may range from 15 or 20 minutes to longer than 1 hour. Some patients will need to schedule naps more often during the day. At least one nap, and usually two or more, can be very beneficial for most patients with narcolepsy.

Avoidance Of Irregular Sleep–Wake Schedules.: As already noted, patients with EDS should maintain regular sleep–wake schedules. Most will find shift work or changes in work schedule extremely difficult. Daytime work is strongly recommended.

Counseling Or Other Assistance: Most patients with narcolepsy require special considerations at work or school, many benefit from marriage or family assistance/counseling, and some require full-time disability. Driving Caution For Patients With EDS Or Cataplexy: Patients should be cautioned to refrain from driving long distances and to cease driving immediately when sleepy.