Hagged and scared - Sleep Disorders Message Board

Poptart89 · 12-09-2007, 10:54 PM

I was recently old hagged, also known as sleep paralysis. It scared me more than anything ever. I've been told its a rare life experience, and it happens for a reason. I'm scared something is wrong and that this particular one meant something. Any information regarding this is appreciated.

mkgbrook · 12-10-2007, 07:52 AM

I used to have sleep paralysis events, monthly. It was a side effect of my severe obstructive sleep apnea induced severe sleep deprivation. Stressing during the event made the durations longer... relaxing and focusing on my breathing tended to make them subside more quickly. Once my sleep apnea was discovered and treated currently age 32 began treatment at the age of 30... all events stopped.

Basically in sleep paralysis your mind is waking for some reason before the body. As a result you are lying there and your mind is running 20 to nothing and you can not even scratch your nose. This disjunction gets worse in those who are sleep deprived because the body need X hours depending on your age to repair and function properly. Thus when in this cycle the body will try and stay asleep.. effecting repairs and maintenance while the mind freaks out.

I would check with a sleep specialist on the matter. Especially if it is happening more that a couple of times a year during times of stress and bad sleep cycles.

Sincerely,
MG

Benjamin01 · 01-08-2008, 08:16 PM

Everyone experiences this at least once in their lives, and some people quite often. I personally do not believe in the paranormal and so do not believe it signifies any future event (although everyone has their own personal beliefs). There has actually been some scientific research into this.

Basically, the motor cortex (which controls muscle movement) is highly active during REM sleep (Rapid Eye Movement or dreaming sleep), generating activity which would normally produce bodily movement. However, these commands do not reach the muscles of the limbs but are instead 'switched off' at a relay station at the top of the spinal column, effectively paralysing the body (known as an output blockade). If this did not happen you would act out your dreams and probably seriousely harm yourself or others).

What you are describing is caused due to the motor cortex remaining isolated (i.e. the output blockade remains) post-awakening. This is usually accompanied by hullucinations which can be very disturbing.

Like I said, this can (and in most cases does) happen to everyone at some point in their life and so, if it just happens the once, should be nothing to worry about. However, as mkgbrook said, if it is happening on a regular basis a sleep specialist may be able to help.

I cultivate lucid dreams and so experience this quite regularly (the two seem to be linked) and so can totally relate to your fear; it really scared me the first time I experienced it.

Hope this puts your mind at ease.