In the latest episode of "Keeping Up With The Kardashians", Kendall Jenner is seen calling her mother, Kris Jenner about walking up in the middle of the night and not being able to move. Kris Jenner dismisses Kendall's health concern citing it's just anxiety. Kendall Jenner however interjects that "Everyone says I'm fine, but I don't feel fine".
From what little Kendall Jenner has said regarding this health scare, people are speculating that what the supermodel is suffering from is sleep paralysis. So what exactly is sleep paralysis? Is it as serious as it sounds?
NHS Choices defines sleep paralysis as a temporary ability to move or speak that occurs when you're waking up or falling asleep. You are still able to breathe normally and be aware of your surroundings. Most medical practitioners have concluded that sleep paralysis is nothing serious but it does cause a high level of fear for the one going through sleep paralysis.
Four out of ten people may experience sleep paralysis. It mostly occurs mostly around your 20's to 30's regardless of gender. It could be hereditary but the most common causes of sleep paralysis are insufficient sleep, changes in your sleeping schedule, stress and anxiety. Sleeping on your back, side effects of medications especially for ADHD, nighttime leg cramps and substance abuse are other factors that could cause sleep paralysis.
But the sensation of sleep paralysis is what makes most people scared of this health problem. When one is unable to move or speak but still aware of one's surroundings, the most quick reason that will go through your mind is that of the supernatural. Some people who experience sleep paralysis have even experience visual and/or auditory hallucinations. However, doctors have explained that all these are just due to your heighten adrenaline caused by fear.
Now that you know what sleep paralysis is, what should you do while experiencing one? How do you end sleep paralysis? According to doctors, the simplest way you can do is just to let it end on its own. Don't panic. Relax and regulate your breathing. Sleep paralysis mostly ends after a few seconds or a few minutes.
To prevent the occurrence of sleep paralysis, you should get ample rest and try to follow a regular sleeping schedule. Try to avoid so much stress. If you think the occurrence of sleep paralysis doesn't diminish or if you feel sleepier and tired more than usual, it is best to consult your doctor. It's better that you're safe than sorry!
Have you experience sleep paralysis? Do you think Kendall Jenner is suffering from the disorder? Share your thoughts below!
