What Is Sleep Paralysis?
Sleep paralysis is the temporary inability to move or talk while waking up or falling asleep. It is a common occurrence, affecting up to 8% of the population at some point in their lives.
During sleep paralysis, the brain is up, but the body is still in REM sleep, a stage of sleep in which the muscles are immobilized. This paralysis is usually a good thing because it keeps the body from acting on dreams. When the body wakes up during REM sleep, it might not be able to “wake up” as quickly as the brain, leading to sleep paralysis.
Symptoms Of Sleep Paralysis?
The inability to move or talk is the most common symptom of sleep paralysis. The body may also experience chest pressure, difficulty breathing, and a sense of fear or terror. During sleep paralysis, certain people suffer visual or auditory hallucinations. These hallucinations can be frightening and frequently involve a sense of presence in the space.
Why Does Sleep Paralysis Happen?
Sleep paralysis has no established cause, but it is assumed to be connected to changes in brain activity during sleep. Some of the things that may increase the risk of sleep paralysis are as follows:
Stress
Anxiety
Sleep deprivation
Depression
Narcolepsy
Alcohol consumption
Drug use
Treatment?
Although there is no specific treatment for sleep paralysis, there are a few steps to lessen the risk of experiencing it:
- Getting enough sleep
- Avoiding alcohol and drugs
- Managing stress
- Creating a relaxing bedtime routine
There are a few things that can be done to cope with sleep paralysis:
- Remind yourself that this is a temporary condition and there is no threat
- Relax and concentrate on your breathing.
- If you have hallucinations, try to ignore them and focus on your breathing.
Sleep paralysis is a common and typically harmless experience. It can, however, be terrifying and disturbing. Remember this is a temporary situation and
