Driving - Travel - How do you manage?
How do you manage daily life regarding driving? My radius is approximately 5 miles, and that is after a nap and with medications. How do people with narcolepsy manage to get places safely?
I used to drive as I wouldn't get sleepy at stoplights or anything and my cataplexy was under control. But I got in a car accident that was apparently my fault. I remember it differently, and thought I 100% had a green light. The other driver was significantly hurt, and insurance inspections showed that I was the one who had a red light. It could have been confabulation, but it also could have been microsleep. I don't trust myself driving anymore and don't want to hurt anyone. I now take Ubers or have a family member drive me, even if I feel fine.
Thank you for your response. Also, I learned a new word "confabulation". 
That must have been scary for you,
, to not even remember causing the accident. I am glad you are okay and that made a decision that you can be at peace with. Life can be a bit harder when you don't drive, but it is manageable, especially in metro and suburban areas where Ubers are an option. Thanks for chiming in. - Lori (Team Member)
I can drive about an hour without too much difficulty, as long as it is early in the day. After that I start to struggle, so I turn my music on loud and I crack open a can of Celsius (200mg caffeine) and that gets me through -- though I make sure to not drive more than 3 hours at a stretch. That means trips further than that require a second driver or an overnight stay.
I am glad you found something that helps,
, and that you know how far you can safely drive. It's frustrating to be limited, but so much safer. Warmest of wishes. - Lori (Team Member)
I can drive for 20-30 mins alone but not at night. I have to have my spouse drive me places I need to go that are further. I have difficulty if Ido drive somewhere that I stay awhile and then find I can’t return. If that is possible I don’t go as kind or I have to call for my spouse to come get me, then we go back for my car. To see family 5 hrs away I have to go by train. But at least I can go most local places on my own. But whenever I’m out on my own my spouse worries a great deal if I’m a bit late returning.
Hi
. Though I wish you could drive more, I am glad you are aware of your limitations and that your spouse is so supportive. Thank goodness you have train access where you live. Thanks for chiming in. - Lori (Team Member)
I drive on nicotine-containing chewing gums 😀 works perfectly, no sleepiness since I've started this method 😀
How awesome that you found something that helps,
. Thanks for sharing. Wishing you the best. - Lori (Team Member)
