‘Sleep Paralysis’ Is a Terrifying Sleep Disorder
If you suffer from sleep paralysis, it can be very terrifying. You are wide awake, but your body feels paralyzed and you cannot open your eyes. You may even have a nightmare and it seems to come ‘to life’. What exactly is sleep paralysis? And how dangerous is it?
Sleep paralysis (sleep paralysis) is a fairly rare sleep disorder. It is estimated that about eight percent of the population sometimes suffers from it. The paralysis occurs while sleeping. You’re awake for a few minutes, but you can’t do anything: don’t move, don’t open your eyes and don’t talk. This can be very scary. Some may even experience hallucinations. Your dreams or nightmares seem to actually come to life.
Risk groups
Anyone can suddenly suffer from sleep paralysis, but some are slightly more at risk. For example, if you have narcolepsy, restless legs syndrome or sleep apnea, it can occur more often. People with psychological disorders – such as post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD), anxiety problems and panic disorders – also seem to suffer from it more often. If you have an irregular sleeping pattern and drink alcohol excessively, you would also be more sensitive to it.
Is it dangerous?
In sleep paralysis, all your muscles are temporarily paralyzed, except your breathing muscles. You cannot suffocate because of this. While sleep paralysis can be quite frightening, it is not dangerous. After a few minutes, the paralysis disappears on its own.
Not much is currently known about the cause of sleep paralysis. Researchers think it’s because you wake up briefly during REM sleep: the sleep phase in which you sleep most deeply and your body is very relaxed, while your brain is still very active.
Preventing Sleep Paralysis
Sleep paralysis cannot be completely prevented, but you can reduce the chance of it slightly. For example, good sleep hygiene can help: a regular sleep pattern, sufficient sleep (six to eight hours a night) and sufficient exercise every day. It is also advisable to avoid smoking, a lot of alcohol or coffee just before going to bed. It would also help to sleep on your side or stomach instead of your back.
If you often suffer from sleep paralysis, you may be anxious and at some point you no longer dare to sleep. You may then benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy.
Sources):
