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During an episode of sleep paralysis, the person may be unable to move or speak

Jessica Flavia image available on Unsplash

what is sleep paralysis

Sleep paralysis is the temporary loss of muscle function during sleep that prevents a person from moving or speaking. It usually occurs when a person falls asleep or while waking up.

Sleep paralysis usually first appears between 14 and 17 years of age. It is a very common condition, affecting between 5 and 40% of the world's population.

Sleep paralysis episodes can occur along with another sleep disorder known as narcolepsy. Narcolepsy is a chronic disorder that causes profound drowsiness and sudden “sleep attacks” throughout the day. However, many people who do not have narcolepsy may have sleep paralysis.

Despite being frightening for some people, sleep paralysis is not dangerous and usually doesn't require any medical intervention.

sleep paralysis symptoms

Understanding the symptoms of sleep paralysis helps you stay calm during or after an episode. The most common feature of a sleep paralysis episode is the inability to move or speak. Immobility can last from a few seconds to about two minutes.

Episodes usually end on their own or when the person suffering from sleep paralysis is touched by someone. Even though you are aware of what is happening, people who experience an episode of sleep paralysis cannot move or speak.

In rare cases, some people experience dream hallucinations that can cause a lot of fear or anxiety but are harmless.

Sleep paralysis and narcolepsy

Sleep paralysis can occur on its own. However, it is also a common symptom of narcolepsy.

Symptoms of narcolepsy include sudden onset of sleep, sudden muscle weakness, and vivid hallucinations.

Who is at risk for sleep paralysis?

Children and adults of all ages can experience sleep paralysis. However, certain groups are at greater risk than others. High-risk groups include people who have:

• Anxiety Disorders;
• Deep depression;
• Bipolar disorder;
• Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

In some cases, sleep paralysis appears to be genetic. However, this condition is rare. And there's not enough scientific evidence that it's hereditary. Sleeping on your back, like being without sleep, are habits that can induce sleep paralysis.

What are the treatment options for sleep paralysis?

Symptoms of sleep paralysis usually disappear in a matter of minutes and cause no lasting physical effects or trauma. However, the experience can be quite unsettling and frightening.

Sleep paralysis that occurs alone does not require treatment. But the sleep paralysis that occurs in those with narcolepsy deserves more attention. The person should seek medical help, especially if symptoms significantly interfere with routine.

For the diagnosis of sleep paralysis, a sleep study, called a polysomnography, may be required. The doctor places electrodes on the chin, scalp, and on the outer edge of the eyelids to measure the electrical activity of muscles and brain waves. Respiration and heart rate are also monitored. In some cases, a camera records movements during sleep.

How to prevent sleep paralysis?

It is possible to minimize the symptoms or frequency of sleep paralysis episodes with a few simple changes in daily habits, such as:

• Avoid stress;
• Exercising regularly, but not around bedtime;
• Rest a lot;
• Keeping a regular sleep schedule;
• Taking prescribed medications correctly;
• Know the side effects and interactions of different medications, to avoid possible unpleasant reactions, including sleep paralysis.

If you have mental disorders such as anxiety or depression, taking an antidepressant may lessen sleep paralysis episodes. Antidepressants can help reduce the amount of dreaming, which decreases sleep paralysis. But beware: never self-medicate, seek specialized medical help.