Narcolepsy & a Cardiovascular Co-morbidities
I have recently discovered that Narcolepsy, more specifically the typical lifestyle adopted by those with narcolepsy, indirectly increases the risks of heart issues.
The primary lifestyle or behavior that many Narcoleptics adopt to cope with side effects and survive is eating significantly less. Since, we all know, that when you eat you will have to sleep shortly after (if not immediately after), and because of how inconvenient this is, we tend to stop eating during the day. Particularly, if you have a full time job, and you can’t afford to provoke a sleep attack by eating breakfast or lunch.
This behavior weakens our metabolism and prevents the development of “good fats” which then snowballs into a whole host of issues with varying levels of severity.
I have always worried issues would stem form my abnormal eating habits, but I was shocked to discover just how dangerous this “survival technique” can be. I’m now scheduling with a cardiologist to go over my heart health and address some new symptoms related to that.
Has anyone else dealt with this? Heart issues, worsening circulation, or cardiovascular co-morbidities in general? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
Does anyone experience an extra heartbeat at times when they are anxious or under stress? I went to a cardiologist and was given a halter monitor to wear for a couple of days. The tape to secure it to my body gave my skin a reaction, so I had to discontinue the test, but the Dr said he got enough of a read from the test that he could diagnose me with an extra heartbeat. He said it was not real common, but that it does happen.
are you currently on any stimulants like Armodafinil, Modafinil, Wakix, etc.? Because some people experience heart issues after going on those. I have not, personally, but it’s not too uncommon I think. 
Hi
. We're not medical experts, but I do know a few people who have had extra heartbeats when stressed. Here is an article about extra heartbeats from Mayo Clinic that might interest you: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/premature-ventricular-contractions/symptoms-causes/syc-20376757. You'll notice there can be many different causes-- some serious and some not. Do you feel like your doctor has ruled out all other potential causes? If not, you might want to consider a second opinion. At the very least, if another doctor agrees with the assessment, it might put you at ease. - Lori (Team Member)
I find the not eating part a bit confusing. I do have an eating disorder, but it's compulsive overeating. So I hope others can help me with this. I also have a a terrible sleep pattern, or should I say I have a very loose one. I can't go to sleep any earlier than 3:30 am. But I can't seem to sleep any longer than a 5 hour stretch, which still seldom happens. But I do fall asleep every day after I eat breakfast, right when I am trying to finish my coffee.
Buty question is, I the only over eater in this group? That has narcolepsy? Not by a longshot,
. Overeating and binge eating are common among people with narcolepsy. Food is comfort and the act of eating can help people stay away. Some people with narcolepsy eating without knowing it, in a way similar to sleepwalking. Here is an article about one person's battle with binge eating and narcolepsy that you might find helpful: https://narcolepsy.sleep-disorders.net/living/night-binge-eating. Here is another article with some tips for combatting weight gain: https://narcolepsy.sleep-disorders.net/living/healthy-eating-tips. I hope it helps to know you are not alone. Warmly, Lori (Team Member)
I'm not sure that fasting breakfast and lunch have any effect on the good fats in our system, but I'm no expert. What you're describing is intermittent fasting, which is actually good for your cardiovascular system, blood sugar, etc, assuming what you do eat is fairly healthy.
it actually does, since eating less (as in once a day) slows your metabolism to the point that it can’t produce good fats. This is well studied. And intermittent fasting can be good as a temporary method, I agree, but that’s not what I’m talking about.
What hind of Bed helps sleep?
Hi
. That is a good question, but the answer will always very according to each individual's needs. For instance, people with sleep apnea or GERD might benefit from beds that allow them to elevate their heads. For others, firmness is the most important factor or the maybe the size of the bed. Do you have issues other than narcolepsy that make it difficult to fall asleep? Thinking of you. - Lori (Team Member)
