Experiences and beliefs related to sleep paralysis among the general population of the twin cities: A cross-sectional study.
Sleep Medicine December 1, 2024 Ahmed Ali Khan, Ammara Abid, Maheen Nawaz et al.
Sleep paralysis is fairly common: 39.1% of 350 surveyed mall visitors reported at least one lifetime episode, typically first occurring between ages 16 and 20. During episodes, 81.0% had difficulty speaking, 71.5% could not open their eyes, and 67.2% felt pressure on their chest. Many people were unaware the condition is called sleep paralysis (24.5%) or mistook it for just a dream (23.5%). Misconceptions about sleep paralysis are widespread.