If you think it's an emergency, call 911.Thinking about suicide? Call or text 988.
Overview
Sleep paralysis happens when the body is still in REM sleep while the mind wakes up.
It's more common with poor sleep and narcolepsy.
When to get medical care
Call 911Not an emergency.
Get care todayNot usually urgent.
See a doctor soonFrequent episodes. Daytime sleepiness.
Causes
Causes include sleep deprivation, stress, and narcolepsy.
OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause can't move when falling asleep or waking up. Each shows how soon to get care.
Common causes
- Sleep paralysisOften treated at home
Being awake but unable to move for a few seconds to minutes while falling asleep or waking up, sometimes with a feeling that someone is in the room.
What you can do at home
- Get regular sleep.
Medicines
Usually none needed.
At the doctor
Diagnosed by symptoms.
Questions you may be asked
- Frequency
- Sleepiness
The exam
A physical exam.
Tests
- Sleep study if needed
Prevention
Sleep well.
- Regular sleep schedule
Check your symptoms
Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.