Over the centuries, symptoms of sleep paralysis have been described in many ways and often attributed to an “evil” presence.
We don’t really know much about sleep paralysis, but many researchers conclude that, in most cases, sleep paralysis is simply a sign that your body is not moving smoothly through the stages of sleep.
It’s very rare that sleep paralysis is linked to deep underlying psychiatric problems, according to WebMD.
Photo via Sleep Cycle
What is sleep paralysis?
Sleep paralysis is a feeling of consciousness when you’re sleeping, but you are unable to move or speak. This happens when a person passes between stages of wakefulness and sleep and during these transitions, you may be unable to move or speak for a few seconds or up to a few minutes.
Some people may also feel pressure or a sense of choking, which can be very scary!
When does it usually occur?
Sleep paralysis usually occurs at one of two times - if it occurs while you are falling asleep, it’s called hypnagogic or predormital sleep paralysis, and if it happens as you are waking up, it’s called hypnopompic or postdormital sleep paralysis.
What are the causes and treatments?
Four out of every 10 adults experience sleep paralysis, and men and women of any age can have it. Sleep paralysis may even run in families.
Other factors that may be linked to sleep paralysis include:
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Lack of sleep
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Sleep schedule that changes
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Mental conditions such as stress of bipolar disorder
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Sleeping on the back
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Other sleep problems such as narcolepsy or nighttime leg cramps
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Use of certain medications, such as those for ADHD
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Substance abuse
However, most people do not need treatment for sleep paralysis.
If you have occasional sleep paralysis, you can take steps at home to control this disorder. Start by making sure you get enough sleep, and do what you can to relieve stress, especially just before bedtime.
Try new sleeping positions if you sleep on your back and be sure to see your doctor if sleep paralysis routinely prevents you from getting a good night’s rest.
Take care!
By: Aishah Akashah Ahadiat
