Methods Of Treating Sleep Paralysis

Treatment for Narcolepsy

Sleep paralysis is sometimes associated with narcolepsy, a chronic sleep disorder that causes excessive drowsiness during the day and random 'sleep attacks.' Narcolepsy patients may also have disturbed rest during the night. Sleep paralysis occurs when an individual is awake, but their body believes they're still in the REM stage of sleep. During REM sleep, the body paralyzes itself so individuals won't act out their dreams. The paralysis might also occur with hallucinations conjured by the brain because it believes it's still dreaming. Hallucinations that occur while individuals fall asleep are referred to as hypnagogic, and hallucinations that occur while they wake up are called hypnopompic. Narcolepsy is treated through lifestyle changes regarding sleep hygiene and diet, along with medication management. Stimulants help treat sleepiness by increasing an individual's wakefulness and focus. There are also antidepressants that can treat abnormal REM sleep symptoms like sleep paralysis and daytime cataplexy.

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