Diagnosed with Narcolepsy with Cataplexy in Singapore.
Studies in University 7 days a week, stressed and sleepy 24/7. Takes Ritalin 10mg but it ain't doing much to keep me awake. I'm eager to get to know people who have Narcolepsy or are in similar medical situations. Singapore is such a small place, I feel like as if there is no one else out there who can understand how it is to struggle with Narcolepsy while living in a stressful fast-paced environment.
Edit 11/7/2018: It's been a long journey as a narcoleptic, with me now currently trying to maintain income from freelance jobs. Singapore should have at least 1 narcoleptic support group system available. Why isn't there any? Let's start one.
I can imagine the fast pace life you lead adds to the emotional as well as physical exhaustion! It seems like so much to juggle, how have you been managing so far?!
I am 29, exhibit most clinical symptoms of narcolepsy with cataplexy, as of now I have been unable to get a firm diagnosis, so far no meds prescribed. so I just eek out sleep when I can, and hide to get it when I cant get "permission" I still have to lie to employers about looking tired in the middle of the day, my wife thinks I fall asleep to avoid her and you can imagine how that effects our relationship
@Carzar252 know how you feel. Been there. See a sleep doc asap. Its sounds so easy, ha. I couldn’t get an appointment myself for a full year, as they were so busy.I called every day, literally, asking if there were any cancellations. I called on the three closest sleep centers, everyday. I finally got an appointment after 3 months of nagging them, and I needed to drive almost two hours to get there. But I finally got a sleep study. I was diagnosed this month. Narcolepsy, no cataplexy. Get the study done, and get the diagnosis. Then your MD can protect your job through FMLA and Disability Act{USA) My sleepyness was affecting every part of my life. I was not able to work some days, missing meetings, and so sleep deprived some days I worried about my speech making sense because the lack of good sleep was causing confusion and fatigue.
I am also 29 and married. Try to be honest with your wife. Let her know how your really feeling. It can be tough, but try to explain it so she gets it, and let her know what and how you are trying to fix things. Most days getting home from work I was literally crawling up the stairs to just get myself into bed. It can be tough on your spouse. But once you have a good doctor and a plan, things should get better. I am here if you need to chat.
I was diagnosed this year. I live in South Africa and also, there are so few people living with the same condition as me. I take Provigil (300mg per day which is quite a lot but any less and my cataplexy is really bad and I fall over/ fall asleep about 5 times per day). I also take Prohexial, a Prozac generic to help regulate my sleep patterns so that I don't fall straight into REM sleep and am able to get more restful sleep each night. They have helped tremendously. Ritalin is not the most suited drug for narcolepsy patients although other meds are often really expensive. Chat to your doctors about what I am taking - it honestly changed my life. I am about to complete my degree, I have a waitressing job and work part time for 3 other companies so am able to keep up the fast-paced lifestyle I knew and loved before my diagnosis even though it is often still tough and embarrassing when I fall asleep at the dinner table...
Best of luck!
Thanks, I'm getting it so now and then but these days here in SA with the summer heat it is difficult especially with the exams this whole November month. Trying just to push through to get this year finished. Now also the death of my father is also rising to can go on and to accept my conditions. Although he died almost 10 years ago it was always a difficult life as I never had a father role model. At least I start to learn to cope with things. Luckily my narcolepsy isn't so bad to need meds. Glad I don't have to follow that routine.