Sleep paralysis is the feeling of partial paralysis during sleep or while waking up. It happens when you are unable to move, even though your mind is active and aware of your surroundings, while your body is still in a state of sleep. This condition is a type of parasomnia.
During sleep paralysis, you may experience visual hallucinations, such as seeing numbers in the air, hearing sounds, or feeling pressure on your body. Often, people feel trapped by an invisible force, and it can feel like you’re choking.
Causes:
- Irregular sleep patterns
- Insufficient sleep
- Insomnia
- Narcolepsy
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (due to accidents)
- General anxiety
- Panic disorder
- Family history
Duration: Sleep paralysis is usually short-lived, lasting from a few seconds to a few minutes.
Treatment:
- Maintain a healthy sleep schedule
- Avoid sleeping on a full stomach
- Avoid caffeine before bedtime
- Relax before going to sleep
- Sleep on your side, not on your back
- Treat any underlying medical condition if present
