Is Sleep Paralysis a Symptom of a Major Problem?

When Does Sleep Paralysis Usually Occur?

As we said, this usually occurs at one of two times, but if you experience this while you’re falling asleep, it is called hypnagogic or predormital sleep paralysis. Also, this can occur as you’re waking up and the proper name for it is hypnopompic or postdormital sleep paralysis.

Who Develops Sleep Paralysis?

This is a common condition – men and women of any age can have it. Up to as many as four out of every 10 people may have sleep paralysis. There are some factors that are linked to sleep paralysis including:

• Lack of sleep
• Sleep schedule that changes
• Mental conditions such as stress or bipolar disorder
• Sleeping on the back
• Other sleep problems such as narcolepsy or nighttime leg cramps
• Use of certain medications, such as those for ADHD
• Substance abuse