Health Tip: Dealing With Narcolepsy When Driving

Narcolepsy causes people to suddenly fall asleep during the day. It can be very dangerous if it happens while you're behind the wheel.

The U.S. National Heart Lung and Blood Institute suggests how to improve driving safety for people with narcolepsy:

• If you have daytime sleepiness, take a nap before you have to drive.
• If you're driving a long way, take frequent breaks to walk around and stretch.
• Have other people drive, when possible.
• Drive with at least one passenger, who can help keep you awake.