What are the ways to overcome chronic sleep paralysis?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am facing severe sleep paralysis. It started when I was between 13 to 14 years of age. But they were never very often, and they would happen once every four to five months. But recently, it has become very often (three to four times every night), and I am scared to fall asleep now.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your situation. You may have sleep paralysis due to underlying stress. Although there is non-pharmacological management for it, you should follow the guidelines below to deal with it. It will help you.

Do exercises for 30 to 45 minutes daily, like at least going for a walk.
You should meditate for 20 minutes daily, sit comfortably, concentrate on your normal breathing, and not stop or force yourself to stop your thoughts. Just let it be. It will help you to relax.
You should eat healthy home-cooked foods and avoid junk foods.
You must drink enough water.
You should spend quality time with friends and family daily or do video calls if you are living away from your family.
Spending time on creative hobbies like reading good books, writing journals, painting, drawing, and learning new skills, language, or musical instruments would be best.
You should take enough seven to eight hours of sleep daily.
It would help if you avoided tobacco or alcohol, or any substance abuse.
Live your life, do not just spend it. Be bold and confident.

If you still have symptoms that persist after following the advice for four to six weeks, then you need to start medications for a short duration.

Investigations to be done are

CBC (complete blood count).

Thyroid profile.

Vitamin B12.

Vitamin D3.

Please, let me know if you want some help.

Thank you.