(HealthDay News) -- Narcolepsy is a condition in which a person falls asleep suddenly, most often at unusual times. A child with narcolepsy may suddenly fall asleep or lose control of muscle function while eating, playing, or simply walking down the street.
Here are some suggestions for dealing with your child's condition, courtesy of The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia:
- Make sure your child has a consistent sleep regimen -- he should go to bed and wake up at the same time each day.
- Short, scheduled naps may help. Check with your pediatrician.
- Exercise or any physical activity may help stimulate your child. Avoid repetitive, sedentary activities.
- Talk to your pediatrician about medications that may help control narcolepsy, and follow the prescription carefully.
- Keep an eye on your child while he's engaged in any activity that could be dangerous, like riding a bike, swimming or cooking. Avoid these activities at times when the child is usually tired.
