What is sleep paralysis? ( Madzikirira)

Over the centuries, symptoms of sleep paralysis have been described in many ways and often attributed to an "evil" presence: unseen night demons in ancient times, and alien abductors.

▪Almost every culture throughout history has had stories of shadowy evil creatures that terrify helpless humans at night.

▪People have long sought explanations for this mysterious sleep-time paralysis and the accompanying feelings of terror.

 *What Is Sleep Paralysis?

▪Sleep paralysis is a feeling of being conscious but unable to move.

▪It occurs when a person passes between stages of wakefulness and sleep.

▪During these transitions, you may be unable to move or speak for a few seconds up to a few minutes.

▪Some people may also feel pressure or a sense of choking.

▪You may also experience:

•feeling as if something is pushing you down

•feeling like someone or something is in the room

•feeling fear

•difficulty breathing

•feeling as if you`re going to die

•sweating

•muscle aches

•headaches

•paranoia

▪Episodes typically end on their own, or when another person touches or moves you.

▪You may be aware of what`s happening but are still unable to move or speak during an episode.

▪You may also be able to recall the details of the episode after temporary paralysis disappears

 *Who Develops Sleep Paralysis?

▪Up to as many as four out of every 10 people may have sleep paralysis.

▪This common condition is often first noticed in the teen years.

▪But men and women of any age can have it.

▪Sleep paralysis may run in families.

▪Other factors that may be linked to sleep paralysis include:

●Lack of sleep

●Sleep schedule that changes

●Mental conditions such as stress or bipolar disorder

●Sleeping on the back

●Other sleep problems such as narcolepsy or nighttime leg cramps

●Use of certain 

medications, such as those for ADHD

●Substance abuse

 *How Is Sleep Paralysis Treated?

▪Most people need no treatment for sleep paralysis.

▪Treating any underlying conditions such as narcolepsy may help if you are anxious or unable to sleep well.

▪These treatments may include the following:

1) Improving sleep habits -- such as making sure you get six to eight hours of sleep each night

2) Using antidepressant medication if it is prescribed to help regulate sleep cycles

3) Treating any mental health problems that may contribute to sleep paralysis

4) Treating any other sleep disorders, such as narcolepsy or leg cramps

 *What Can I Do About Sleep Paralysis?

▪There`s no need to fear nighttime demons or alien abductors.

▪If you have occasional sleep paralysis, you can take steps at home to control this disorder.

▪Start by making sure you get enough sleep.

▪Do what you can to relieve stress in your life -- especially just before bedtime.

▪Try new sleeping positions if you sleep on your back.