Sleep paralysis is a temporary inability to move or speak that occurs when you are waking up or falling asleep. It is a common and benign condition that affects both men and women. While sleep paralysis can be alarming, it is not a dangerous condition and is usually not a sign of a serious underlying medical issue.
Symptoms
During an episode of sleep paralysis, you may be unable to move or speak, although you are still aware of your surroundings. You may also experience vivid hallucinations or feel a sense of impending doom. Sleep paralysis typically lasts a few minutes, although it can feel much longer.
What Causes Sleep Paralysis?
Sleep paralysis occurs when there is a disruption in the normal sleep-wake cycle. The muscles are paralyzed during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, a stage of sleep when most dreaming occurs. This paralysis is a normal part of the sleep process and helps prevent you from acting out your dreams.
However, if you wake up before the paralysis has worn off, you may experience sleep paralysis. This can occur if you are awakened suddenly, such as by an alarm or a loud noise. Sleep paralysis can also be triggered by sleep deprivation, jet lag, or certain medications.
What does sleep paralysis feel like?
During an episode of sleep paralysis, you may feel as if you are unable to move or speak, although you are still aware of your surroundings. You may also experience vivid hallucinations, such as seeing figures or hearing voices. Some people report feeling a sense of impending doom or feeling pressure on their chest. Sleep paralysis typically lasts a few minutes, although it can feel much longer.
While sleep paralysis can be frightening, it is a benign condition and is not a sign of a serious underlying medical issue.
Who’s Affected?
Sleep paralysis can affect anyone, but it is more common in people who have certain risk factors, such as:
- A family history of sleep paralysis
- A history of sleep disorders, such as narcolepsy or insomnia
- A history of substance abuse
- A history of depression or anxiety
- A history of irregular sleep patterns, such as rotating shift work
Diagnosing Sleep Paralysis
Sleep paralysis is usually diagnosed through a medical history and physical exam. During the medical history, the healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms and any underlying medical conditions. They may also ask about your sleep habits and any medications you are taking.
A physical exam may be performed to rule out any other underlying medical conditions that could be causing the symptoms. The healthcare provider may also recommend a sleep study, also known as a polysomnogram, to assess your sleep patterns and identify any underlying sleep disorders.
A sleep study involves wearing sensors during sleep to monitor brain activity, eye movements, and other bodily functions. The sensors are typically attached to the scalp, face, chest, and legs. The data collected during the sleep study can help the healthcare provider determine the type and severity of any sleep disorders and recommend appropriate treatment.
In some cases, additional testing may be needed to identify any underlying medical conditions that could be causing sleep paralysis. These tests may include blood tests, imaging studies, or other diagnostic tests.
Treating Sleep Paralysis
Treatment for sleep paralysis typically involves addressing any underlying causes, such as a sleep disorder or irregular sleep patterns. A healthcare provider may recommend lifestyle changes, such as establishing a regular sleep schedule, practicing good sleep hygiene, and avoiding substances that can disrupt sleep, such as caffeine and alcohol.
If an underlying sleep disorder is causing sleep paralysis, treatment may involve medication or other therapies, such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) for sleep apnea.
Complications of Sleep Paralysis
Although sleep paralysis is not a dangerous condition, it can be frightening and can cause anxiety and distress. If you experience recurrent episodes of sleep paralysis, it is important to seek medical attention to identify any underlying causes and to address any related anxiety or distress.
Preventing Sleep Paralysis
There are several things you can do to help prevent sleep paralysis:
- Establish a regular sleep schedule and aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night
- Practice good sleep hygiene, such as avoiding screens before bed and creating a comfortable sleep environment
- Avoid substances that can disrupt sleep, such as caffeine and alcohol
- Get treatment for any underlying sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea or insomnia
- Avoid sleeping on your back, as this position may increase the risk of sleep paralysis
If you experience recurrent episodes of sleep paralysis, it is important to see a healthcare provider for further evaluation and treatment. A healthcare provider can help identify any underlying causes and recommend strategies to prevent future episodes of sleep paralysis.