The term “sleep paralysis” (SP) was first found in the documents of a Dutch physician, in a patient’s medical history dating from 1664. This phenomenon has also been referred to as an “incubus.” For a long time, SP has been associated with the nocturnal visit of a demon or other evil creature. Such data are provided by researchers from India—Ganguly, S. Ghosh, Banerjee, Alam, and R. Ghosh.
As the authors remind us, at the moment of SP, the dreamer becomes partially conscious in the REM sleep phase. According to various sources, up to 40% of the population experience this phenomenon. The main contributing factors are unhealthy sleep patterns, stress, and depression. The scientists note that the symptoms of SP occur in schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and narcolepsy. There is also an assumption that sleep paralysis may be genetic: if a twin experiences SP, the second twin is very likely to do likewise.
Since this condition occurs due to stress, anxiety, and lack of sleep, antidepressants and cognitive behavioral therapy are commonly recommended for the treatment of sleep paralysis. Among the possible medications, the authors list yokukansan (a herbal medicine prescribed for Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases), duloxetine (used to treat depression and anxiety), venlafaxine (used to reduce depression, anxiety, panic attacks, social phobias, and restore interest in everyday life), and more.
The researchers also give tips on how to cope with SP without medication:
– Get enough sleep (6–8 hours)
– Avoid the intake of alkaloids and alcohol in the evening
– Sleep in a dark, quiet room
– Practice relaxation before going to bed
– Establish a healthy lifestyle
Have you ever been treated for sleep paralysis?
The article was published in February 2023 in the International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research.
Drugs and plants may have side effects and should only be used in consultation with a doctor. This article does not call for independent experiments.
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