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22nd September 2019
08:34am BST

Why does it happen?
There are a few reasons as to why a person might be suffering from sleep paralysis, but the most common one is sleep deprivation or insomnia.
When you're sleeping, it's not unusual for the muscles in your body to become paralysed, however, when you wake up they're supposed to go back to normal.
When this doesn't happen and you can't move or speak, you're experiencing sleep paralysis.
People who have sporadic sleeping patterns and those who suffer from narcolepsy are also more at risk of the sensation.
How is it treated?
Sleep paralysis can be treated in a few different ways, so if you've been suffering from it don't worry because there are lots of things you can do.
The first is similar to the way you might treat insomnia - by creating a better sleep environment for yourself that involves a dark room, a comfortable mattress, and doing actives during the day that are likely to tire you out, such as exercise.
It's also recommended that you don't consume caffeine close to bedtime while also cutting down on your alcohol and nicotine intake.
If your sleep paralysis is particularly bad, your GP may prescribe you some medication that will change the way your REM sleep works, making it easier for your muscles to work when you wake up.
If you're suffering from sleep paralysis, deprivation, or any other kind of sleep-related issue, you should also go see your doctor if the symptoms persist.
You can read more about sleep paralysis and other sleep-related conditions on the HSE's website. Explore more on these topics:

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