If you have ever had a case of sleep paralysis, you are well aware of how bizarre and unsettling it is. While the person is cognizant and unable to move any body part for a few seconds to a few minutes, it does not physically hurt their body.
It frequently gets started in adolescence and may increase in frequency in your 20s and 30s. It takes place in one of two stages: “hypnagogic,” which occurs just before sleep, and “hypnopompic,” which happens right after REM sleep.
Our bodies relax entirely as we go to sleep, but our minds become less alert. When a person experiences hypnagogic sleep paralysis, their body relaxes without their conscious consent, which results in panic.
In contrast, hypnopompic sleep paralysis causes the brain to awaken more quickly, but it has no effect on the area of the brain that causes REM paralysis, leaving the patient partially aware but unable to move their muscles.
Even though this occurrence is uncommon, roughly 8% of people experience sleep paralysis on a regular basis, and those who suffer from mental illnesses like anxiety and depression are more likely to experience it.
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Here are all the risk factors listed:
– Mental conditions, like stress or bipolar disorder
– Sleeping on the back
– Lack of sleep
– Frequent changes in sleep schedule
– Sleep problems like narcolepsy or nighttime leg cramps
– Substance abuse
– Certain types of medication, like those with ADHD
These are the most common signs and symptoms of sleep paralysis:
- an inability to move the body when falling asleep or on waking, which can last for a few seconds or even several minutes
- An inability to speak during an episode while being consciously awake
- Pressure felt in the chest
- Difficulties breathing
- Experiencing hallucinations and sensations that lead to fear and panic
- Headaches, and muscle pains
- Sweating
- Paranoia and feeling as if death is approaching
Yet, sleep paralysis occurs naturally, so there is generally no prescribed treatment, but your doctor can prescribe:
– Implementation of a sleeping schedule
– Treatment of any underlying sleep disorders
–Anti-depressants
– Referral to a sleep specialist
–Sleeping aids
– Referral to a mental health professional
In many cases, establishing a regular sleeping schedule and reducing stress can prevent sleep paralysis. Health experts advise treating unusual episodes with attention to sleeping habits because sleep deprivation may be their primary cause.
Avoiding substances like alcohol, coffee, narcotics, and nicotine as well as sleeping in a room free of electronics will also be very beneficial.
Furthermore, the following additional measures may help you avoid these issues:
- Avoiding sleeping on the back
- Incorporating some stress-reducing techniques
- Reducing the intake of stimulants
- Practicing meditation or regular prayer
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