1. I am 25. Sometime early in the morning, I feel completely paralyzed and helpless. It happens when sleeping but I feel it real. It is scary because I feel a presence of somebody near my feet and no matter how hard I try, I find it difficult to wake up. It lasts for a couple of minutes. I read about this condition, sleep paralysis. Could you please help on how I can keep a check on it. What causes it and if any particular sleep posture can help?
Your symptoms are those of sleep paralysis. Emotional stress and poor sleep hygiene are the common causes. Please look into these aspects and see if you can correct them. If not, you should seek the expert advice of a neurologist.
2. My spouse says that I talk in my sleep quite often. Initially I used to mumble but now the frequency has increased and dialogues are louder. I am afraid he will leave me me since he is really disturbed. I am 28. What can I do?
Your symptoms may be related to emotional stress and poor sleep hygiene. Since your marriage is at stake, I suggest you consult a neurologist at the earliest. You will need a basic medical check up with a sleep study. The neurologist may also refer you to other experts in Psychology.
3. My son is 11-year-old and he has started sleepwalking. I have found him sleeping under the table and under the bed for quite some time now. Can you tell me what the sleepwalking condition and how it can be treated?
Sleepwalking in childhood may signal unresolved emotional conflicts. It is best that your son is investigated primarily under a Neurologist who may also involve a Psychologist in the management of his problem.
Consultant Neurologist, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road