Sleep paralysis causes temporary loss of muscle control and function. It occurs in the moments right before or right after you’ve fallen asleep. It can also occur as you’re trying to wake up.
Sleep paralysis is one of the most common sleep disturbances. One reviewTrusted Source estimated that 7 percent of people may experience it.
Symptoms of sleep paralysis include being unable to move your limbs, body, or head while you’re trying to sleep or wake up. These episodes may last a few seconds or several minutes.
Sleep paralysis doesn’t have a single known cause. Instead, it’s often thought of as a complication of some other condition.
For example, people who have the sleep disorder narcolepsy may frequently experience sleep paralysis. Other underlying conditions such as mental health issues and sleep deprivation can play a role, as can medication use and substance use.
Treatment for sleep paralysis primarily aims to address the underlying condition or issue that may be causing the loss of muscle function in the first place.
For example, doctors may prescribe antidepressants to people who have sleep paralysis caused by specific mental health issues, such as bipolar disorder.
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Malvika Tiwari, |
