Millions of people are affected by sleep paralysis, a common disorder characterized by the inability to move or speak while on the brink of REM sleep. Accompanied by hallucinations, these experiences can range from feeling a presence in the room to chest pressure. Sleep paralysis is often associated with REM sleep due to bodily paralysis except for the diaphragm. Some individuals experience it upon awakening or before falling asleep, which was described as “day-mares” in the 1850s by physician Edward Binns. During my own encounter with sleep paralysis, I felt intense body heat and heard distinct noises from outside and my ticking watch nearby. Flies buzzing around me landed on my face irritably. Throughout this episode, I remained mentally aware and conscious, understanding that an oppressive force was affecting me. I tried reasoning with myself to overcome overwhelming fear, desperately hoping for someone to open the door and free me from this captive state. Thankfully, after about five minutes, my senses and mobility returned eventually ending the episode.As my ability to speak and move returned, the effects of sleep paralysis gradually decreased. It is significant to note that during episodes of sleep paralysis, hypnagogic hallucinations often occur. These hallucinations are frequently misinterpreted as a malevolent being or a sensation of pressure on the chest known in past times as the Old Hag or The Witch.
Sleep paralysis is a common condition with a prevalence rate ranging from 5% to 62%, according to Dahlitz. It can be characterized by single or infrequent episodes and may run in families. Becker mentioned that it can also be associated with other hypersomnia disorders such as sleep apnea. Siegel stated that both sleep paralysis and narcolepsy are believed to be REM sleep disorders. Interestingly, the risk of developing this disorder does not seem to be affected by gender or race. Dahlitz also noted that the episodes of sleep paralysis typically occur between the ages of 5 and 35. Additionally, Larkin pointed out that the use of anxiolytic medicines, psychiatric disorders, and high anxiety levels can contribute to its occurrence.
The limited treatment options for sleep paralysis are primarily focused on the associated disorders due to the lack of knowledge about REM sleep (Siegel). Alleviating sleep apnea or narcolepsy is often beneficial in treating sleep paralysis. One can often end the experience of sleep paralysis with a simple touch from another person, while in most cases, one must simply wait for it to pass (Becker). The field of sleep research still has numerous unanswered questions regarding our need for sleep and dreams and the disorders that result from inadequate sleep. Sleep paralysis is just a small part of the larger mystery surrounding sleep. As scientific understanding of sleep continues to progress, we may gain more insight into the underlying causes of this phenomenon.
Sleep paralysis is a terrifying occurrence that can induce strong anxiety and dread. While it is generally harmless, it bears resemblance to a nightmare. Sleep paralysis does not differentiate based on race or gender, yet age might play a role. The treatment of sleep paralysis presents challenges since physicians typically focus on addressing associated conditions like sleep apnea or narcolepsy. This phenomenon remains an enigmatic facet of the human brain, which scientists will persist in exploring.
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