Sleep paralysis

Posted by steph9097 @steph9097, Sep 24, 2021

Does anyone have sleep parylisis? I've had it for a few years. I remember the first year I would get it constantly. And now it happens 1 time every few weeks. But it's so scary. Sometimes when I have sleep paralysis I feel like ectrictity running through my body I mainly feel it in my head really strong. Then I wake up. Had anyone felt the same thing? How can I fix this, I don't wanna get it anymore

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John, Volunteer Mentor | @johnbishop | Sep 25, 2021

Hello @steph9097, There is an older discussion on sleep paralysis but I'm not sure there are any active members following that discussion --- Sleep Paralysis diagnosis: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/sleep-paralysis-diagnosis/.

@colleenyoung shared the following information in the older discussion with some suggestions that you may find helpful.
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According to this overview about sleep paralysis from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine http://bit.ly/2fmULL6 “Sleep paralysis tends to first appear in the teen years. It then occurs most often when you are in your 20s and 30s. It may continue into your later years. It is not a serious medical risk.”

You’ll see in this information from Mayo Clinic that excessive daytime sleepiness and and sleep paralysis are symptoms of narcolepsy, a chronic sleep disorder. http://mayocl.in/1hWKJgv The article goes on to describe these lifestyle modifications:
“Lifestyle modifications are important in managing the symptoms of narcolepsy. You may benefit from these steps:

– Stick to a schedule. Go to sleep and wake up at the same time every day, including weekends.
– Take naps. Schedule short naps at regular intervals during the day. Naps of 20 minutes at strategic times during the day may be refreshing and reduce sleepiness for one to three hours. Some people may need longer naps.
– Avoid nicotine and alcohol. Using these substances, especially at night, can worsen your signs and symptoms.
– Get regular exercise. Moderate, regular exercise at least four to five hours before bedtime may help you feel more awake during the day and sleep better at night.”
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Have you spoken to your doctor about your sleep issues?

weeds | @weeds | Sep 28, 2021

Hi Steph9097
I have had sleep paralysis off and on for decades. In the beginning, it was horrifying. But I learned to relax into it by following my breathing. Do you do meditation? If you can remember while you are having the experience, to focus on your breathing instead of your fear, it should help. Also, in the beginning, I found I would have them more when I slept on my back. Maybe it will help you to sleep on your side…