What is Sleep Paralysis

Sleep paralysis can be a pretty scary experience, especially when it occurs for the first time.  Here is some great information that may help alleviate some anxiety if it does occur.

What is Sleep Paralysis?

According to Wikipedia , Sleep Paralysis is paralysis associated with sleep that may occur in normal subjects or be associated with narcolepsy, cataplexy, and hypnagogic hallucinations. The pathsophysiology of this condition is closely related to the normal hypotonia that occur during REM sleep. When considered to be a disease, isolated sleep paralysis is classified as MeSH D020188.[2] Some evidence suggests that it can also, in some cases, be a symptom of migraine.

What are the possible causes?

Many people who commonly enter sleep paralysis also suffer from narcolepsy. In African Americans, panic disorder occurs with sleep paralysis more frequently
than in Caucasians.  Some reports read that various factors increase the likelihood of both paralysis and hallucinations. These include:

1. Sleeping in a face upwards or supine position.

2. Irregular sleeping schedules; naps, sleeping in, sleep deprivation.

3. Increased stress.

4. Sudden environmental/lifestyle changes.

5. A lucid dream that immediately precedes the episode.

6. Excessive consumption of alcohol coupled with lack of adequate sleep.

The Treatment?

Treatment starts with patient education about sleep stages and about the muscle atonia that is typically associated with REM sleep. For most healthy individuals, avoiding chronic sleep deprivation is enough to relieve symptoms. It is recommended that patients be evaluated for narcolepsy if symptoms persist.

Related Phenomena?

Many perceptions associated with sleep paralysis (visceral buzzing, loud sounds, adrenal mental state, presences, and the paralysis itself) also constitute a common phase in the early progression of episodes referred to as out of body experiences. Mental focus varies between the two conditions; paralysis sufferers tend to fixate on reestablishing operation of the body, whereas subjects of out-of-body episodes are more occupied by perceived non-equivalence with the body.

Original Article Here

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