Sleep paralysis treatment can include lifestyle changes and medications to address the sleep paralysis. Some patients may opt not to receive treatment because they do not find the condition debilitating. The most suitable sleep paralysis treatment depends on the patient and the underlying causes of the phenomenon. A sleep specialist can assist patients with finding a treatment method that will suit their needs.
In sleep paralysis, people find themselves temporarily unable to move during sleep. Usually, it lasts no more than a few minutes and it will resolve independently or if the sleeping person is touched. Sometimes, sleep paralysis is accompanied with vivid hallucinations that can be very frightening, especially if the patient tries to move and is unable to do so.
Sometimes there is no clear cause. In other cases, sleep paralysis appears to be hereditary, and it is linked with some mental illnesses and disorders like narcolepsy. If a patient develops sleep paralysis, the first step is to assess the patient to see if there is an underlying cause. People with changing sleep schedules and high amounts of stress can also be subject to sleep paralysis.
One sleep paralysis treatment is to make adjustments to sleep hygiene. Setting a sleeping schedule, changing sleeping positions, keeping the bedroom clear of distractions, and taking similar steps can help people sleep more soundly. Addressing sources of stress can also be advisable. People who work or live in high stress environments might benefit from meditation, changes to their schedule, and other steps to identify and address triggers that are associated with sleep paralysis.
Medications are another option for sleep paralysis treatment for some patients. Antidepressants sometimes help, as do other medication options. For patients with underlying conditions that are contributing to the problem, treating these conditions can resolve the sleep paralysis. Some patients also benefit from psychotherapy. A psychotherapist can teach patients coping skills, guided imagery, and other techniques to address sleep paralysis or to address some of the fear and tension associated with paralysis episodes.
Having sleep paralysis is not necessary harmful, nor is it always a sign of a medical problem. For patients where an underlying cause is not identified and the patient is not experiencing hardship or distress, treatment recommendations may include trying some small changes to sleeping habits, but not pursuing more aggressive sleep paralysis treatment options. If the episodes become a problem, the patient can return to a doctor for further evaluation.
