Sleep paralysis

Sleep paralysis is when you cannot move or speak as you are waking up or falling asleep. It can be scary but it's harmless and most people will only get it once or twice in their life.

Prescription review online

Prescription review online

A doctor will review your case and issue a prescription if medically appropriate.

Talk to a doctor online

Talk to a doctor online

Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps with a doctor online.

Doctor
5.0(14)

Sergey Ilyasov

PsychiatryNeurology7 years of experience

Dr Sergey Ilyasov is an experienced neurologist and qualified psychiatrist who provides online consultations for adults and adolescents. Combining deep neurological expertise with a modern psychiatric approach, he ensures comprehensive diagnostics and effective treatment for a wide range of conditions affecting both physical and mental health.

Dr. Ilyasov helps patients in the following cases:

  • Chronic headaches (migraine, tension-type headache), back pain, neuropathic pain, dizziness, numbness in limbs, coordination disorders.
  • Anxiety disorders (panic attacks, generalized anxiety disorder), depression (including atypical and treatment-resistant forms), sleep disturbances (insomnia, hypersomnia, nightmares), stress, burnout.
  • Chronic pain syndromes and psychosomatic symptoms (e.g., irritable bowel syndrome related to stress, vegetative-vascular dystonia).
  • Behavioral disorders and concentration difficulties in adolescents (including ADHD, autism spectrum disorders), nervous tics.
  • Memory impairments, phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), emotional swings, and support for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Thanks to his dual specialization in neurology and psychiatry, Dr Sergey Ilyasov offers integrated and evidence-based care for complex conditions requiring a multidisciplinary approach. His consultations focus on accurate diagnosis, development of an individualized treatment plan (including pharmacotherapy and psychotherapeutic methods), and long-term support adapted to each patient's unique needs.

Book an online consultation with Dr. Sergey Ilyasov to receive qualified assistance and improve your well-being today.

Book a video appointment
€106
This page provides general information and does not replace a doctor’s consultation. If symptoms are severe, persistent or worsening, seek medical advice promptly.

Sleep paralysis is when you cannot move or speak as you are waking up or falling asleep. It can be scary but it's harmless and most people will only get it once or twice in their life.

What happens during sleep paralysis

During sleep paralysis you may feel:

  • awake but cannot move, speak or open your eyes
  • like someone is in your room
  • like something is pushing you down
  • frightened

These feelings can last up to several minutes.

Causes of sleep paralysis

Sleep paralysis happens when you cannot move your muscles as you are waking up or falling asleep. This is because you are in sleep mode but your brain is active.

It's not clear why sleep paralysis can happen but it has been linked with:

Things you can do to help prevent sleep paralysis

You may be able to prevent sleep paralysis by changing your sleeping habits.

 Do 

  • try to regularly get 7 to 9 hours of sleep a day
  • go to bed at roughly the same time each night and get up at the same time each morning
  • get regular exercise, but not in the 4 hours before going to bed
Consult with a doctor about Sleep paralysis

Consult with a doctor about Sleep paralysis

Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps with a doctor online.

 Don’t 

  • do not eat a big meal, smoke, or drink alcohol or caffeine shortly before going to bed
  • do not sleep on your back – this can make sleep paralysis more likely to happen

 See a GP if: 

You often have sleep paralysis and you feel:

  • very anxious or scared to go to sleep
  • tired all the time due to lack of sleep

Treating sleep paralysis

A GP may be able to treat an underlying condition that could be triggering sleep paralysis such as insomnia or post-traumatic stress disorder.

If this does not help they might refer you to a doctor who specialises in sleep conditions.

Treatment from a specialist

You might be given medicine usually used to treat depression. Taking this type of medicine at a lower dose can also help with sleep paralysis.

You might also be referred for cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).

Online doctors for Sleep paralysis

Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps for Sleep paralysis with a doctor online.

Doctor
5.0(14)

Sergey Ilyasov

PsychiatryNeurology7 years of experience

Dr Sergey Ilyasov is an experienced neurologist and qualified psychiatrist who provides online consultations for adults and adolescents. Combining deep neurological expertise with a modern psychiatric approach, he ensures comprehensive diagnostics and effective treatment for a wide range of conditions affecting both physical and mental health.

Dr. Ilyasov helps patients in the following cases:

  • Chronic headaches (migraine, tension-type headache), back pain, neuropathic pain, dizziness, numbness in limbs, coordination disorders.
  • Anxiety disorders (panic attacks, generalized anxiety disorder), depression (including atypical and treatment-resistant forms), sleep disturbances (insomnia, hypersomnia, nightmares), stress, burnout.
  • Chronic pain syndromes and psychosomatic symptoms (e.g., irritable bowel syndrome related to stress, vegetative-vascular dystonia).
  • Behavioral disorders and concentration difficulties in adolescents (including ADHD, autism spectrum disorders), nervous tics.
  • Memory impairments, phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), emotional swings, and support for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Thanks to his dual specialization in neurology and psychiatry, Dr Sergey Ilyasov offers integrated and evidence-based care for complex conditions requiring a multidisciplinary approach. His consultations focus on accurate diagnosis, development of an individualized treatment plan (including pharmacotherapy and psychotherapeutic methods), and long-term support adapted to each patient's unique needs.

Book an online consultation with Dr. Sergey Ilyasov to receive qualified assistance and improve your well-being today.

Book a video appointment
€106
Doctor
5.0(12)

Yevgen Yakovenko

Family medicine12 years of experience

Dr. Yevgen Yakovenko is a licensed surgeon and general practitioner in Spain and Germany. He specialises in general, paediatric, and oncological surgery, internal medicine, and pain management. He offers online consultations for adults and children, combining surgical precision with therapeutic support. Dr Yakovenko works with patients across different countries and provides care in Ukrainian, Russian, English, and Spanish.

Areas of medical expertise:

  • Acute and chronic pain: headaches, muscle and joint pain, back pain, abdominal pain, postoperative pain. Identifying the cause, selecting treatment, and creating a care plan.
  • Internal medicine: heart, lungs, gastrointestinal tract, urinary system. Management of chronic conditions, symptom control, second opinions.
  • Pre- and postoperative care: risk assessment, decision-making support, follow-up after surgery, rehabilitation strategies.
  • General and paediatric surgery: hernias, appendicitis, congenital conditions, both planned and urgent surgeries.
  • Injuries and trauma: bruises, fractures, sprains, soft tissue damage, wound care, dressing, referral when in-person care is required.
  • Oncological surgery: diagnosis review, treatment planning, and long-term follow-up.
  • Obesity treatment and weight management: a medical approach to weight loss, including assessment of underlying causes, evaluation of comorbidities, development of a personalised plan (nutrition, physical activity, pharmacotherapy if needed), and ongoing progress monitoring.
  • Imaging interpretation: analysis of ultrasound, CT, MRI, and X-ray results, surgical planning based on imaging data.
  • Second opinions and medical navigation: clarifying diagnoses, reviewing current treatment plans, helping patients choose the best course of action.

Experience and qualifications:

  • 12+ years of clinical experience in university hospitals in Germany and Spain.
  • International education: Ukraine – Germany – Spain.
  • Member of the German Society of Surgeons (BDC).
  • Certified in radiological diagnostics and robotic surgery.
  • Active participant in international medical conferences and research.

Dr Yakovenko explains complex topics in a clear, accessible way. He works collaboratively with patients to analyse health issues and make evidence-based decisions. His approach is grounded in clinical excellence, scientific accuracy, and respect for each individual.

If you are unsure about a diagnosis, preparing for surgery, or want to discuss your test results – Dr Yakovenko will help you evaluate your options and move forward with confidence.

Book a video appointment
€72
Doctor
5.0(22)

Taisiia Proida

Psychiatry7 years of experience

Taisiia Proida is a general practitioner with a specialization in mental health and a cognitive behavioral therapist (CBT), a member of the European Psychiatric Association. She offers online consultations for adults aged 18 and over, combining evidence-based medicine with an individualised approach to mental health care. She specialises in consultations and ongoing support for a wide range of mental health concerns, including: 

  • Mood disorders: depression, bipolar disorder, postpartum depression.
  • Anxiety disorders: generalised anxiety, OCD, panic attacks, phobias.
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and complex PTSD.
  • Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Assessment is provided only after an initial psychiatric evaluation and during a follow-up appointment.
  • Personality disorders and emotional instability.
  • Cyclothymia and mood fluctuations.
  • Schizophrenia spectrum and related conditions.

Dr. Proida combines clinical expertise with an empathetic approach, offering structured support based on evidence-based practices. Her work integrates CBT techniques with medical management, with a focus on anxiety and depressive disorders. She works with clients from different countries and cultural backgrounds, adapting her communication style and recommendations to individual needs. With experience in international clinical trials (Pfizer, Merck), she values clarity, trust, and collaborative partnership in patient care.

Book a video appointment
€156
Doctor
5.0(3)

Lina Travkina

Family medicine13 years of experience

Dr. Lina Travkina is a licensed family and preventive medicine doctor based in Italy. She provides online consultations for adults and children, supporting patients across all stages of care – from acute symptom management to long-term health monitoring and prevention.

Areas of medical care include:

  • Respiratory conditions: colds, flu, acute and chronic bronchitis, mild to moderate pneumonia, bronchial asthma.
  • ENT and eye conditions: sinusitis, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, otitis, infectious and allergic conjunctivitis.
  • Digestive issues: gastritis, acid reflux (GERD), IBS, dyspepsia, bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, functional bowel symptoms, intestinal infections.
  • Urological and infectious diseases: acute and recurrent cystitis, bladder and kidney infections, prevention of recurrent UTIs, asymptomatic bacteriuria.
  • Chronic conditions: hypertension, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, metabolic syndrome, thyroid disorders, excess weight.
  • Neurological and general symptoms: headache, migraine, dizziness, fatigue, sleep disturbances, reduced concentration, anxiety, asthenia.
  • Chronic pain support: back, neck, joint, and muscle pain, tension syndromes, pain associated with osteochondrosis and chronic conditions.

Additional care areas:

  • Preventive consultations and check-up planning.
  • Medical advice and follow-up consultations.
  • Test interpretation and diagnostic guidance.
  • Structured support for undiagnosed complaints.
  • Second opinion on diagnoses and treatment plans.
  • Nutritional and lifestyle support for vitamin deficiencies, anaemia, metabolic issues.
  • Post-operative recovery support and pain management.
  • Preconception counselling and postpartum support.
  • Immunity support and strategies to reduce frequency of infections.

Dr. Travkina combines evidence-based medicine with an attentive, personalised approach. Her consultations focus not only on treatment, but also on prevention, recovery, and long-term wellbeing.

If during the consultation it becomes clear that your case requires in-person assessment or specialised care outside of her scope, the session will be terminated and the payment fully refunded.

Book a video appointment
€75
Doctor
5.0(19)

Nuno Tavares Lopes

Family medicineGeneral medicine18 years of experience

Dr. Nuno Tavares Lopes is a licensed physician in Portugal with 17 years of experience in emergency medicine, family and general practice, and public health. He is the Director of Medical and Public Health Services at an international healthcare network and serves as an external consultant for the WHO and ECDC.

  • Emergency care: infections, fever, chest/abdominal pain, minor injuries, paediatric emergencies
  • Family medicine: hypertension, diabetes, cholesterol, chronic disease management
  • Travel medicine: pre-travel advice, vaccinations, fit-to-fly certificates, travel-related illnesses
  • Sexual and reproductive health: PrEP, STD prevention, counselling, treatment
  • Weight management and wellness: personalised weight loss programmes, lifestyle guidance
  • Skin and ENT issues: acne, eczema, allergies, rashes, sore throat, sinusitis
  • Pain management: acute and chronic pain, post-surgical care
  • Public health: prevention, health screenings, long-term monitoring
  • Sick leave (Baixa médica) connected to Segurança Social in Portugal
  • IMT medical certificates for driving licence exchange
Dr. Nuno Tavares Lopes provides medical support for patients using GLP-1 medications (Mounjaro, Wegovy, Ozempic, Rybelsus) as part of a weight loss strategy. He offers individualised treatment planning, regular follow-up, dose adjustment, and advice on combining medication with sustainable lifestyle changes. Consultations follow the medical standards accepted in Europe.

Dr. Lopes also provides interpretation of medical tests, follow-up care for complex patients, and multilingual support. Whether for urgent concerns or long-term care, he helps patients act with clarity and confidence.

Book a video appointment
€70
Doctor
5.0(6)

Anastasiia Hladkykh

Psychiatry15 years of experience

Dr Anastasiia Hladkykh is a physician-psychotherapist and psychologist with over 14 years of experience working with individuals struggling with various types of addictions and their families. She provides online consultations for adults, combining medical knowledge with deep psychological support and practical tools.

Key areas of expertise:

  • Addiction treatment: alcohol and drug dependence, gambling addiction, compulsive behaviours, codependent relationships.
  • Support for families of addicted individuals, behavioural correction within the family system, guidance for maintaining remission.
  • Mental health: depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety disorders, phobias, PTSD, generalised anxiety, emotional trauma, and the psychological impact of loss or emigration.
  • Psychoeducation: explaining complex mental health concepts in simple language, helping patients and their families understand diagnoses and treatment steps.
Therapeutic approach:
  • Client-centred, straightforward, and empathetic – focused on practical outcomes and emotional stabilisation.
  • Prescribes medications when needed, but always aims to minimise unnecessary pharmaceutical use.
  • Certified in multiple evidence-based methods: CBT, NLP (Master Practitioner), Ericksonian hypnosis, symbol drama, art therapy, and systemic therapy.
  • Each consultation results in a clear, structured plan – patients leave knowing exactly what to do next.
Experience and background:
  • Member of the German association Gesundheitpraktikerin and the NGO “Mit dem Sonne in jedem Herzen.”
  • More than 18 publications in international peer-reviewed journals, translated into several languages.
  • Volunteer work with Ukrainian refugees and military personnel at the University Clinic of Regensburg.
Book a video appointment
€156
Doctor
4.7(10)

Anastasiia Shalko

Family medicinePaediatrics13 years of experience

Dr. Anastasiia Shalko is a general practitioner with a background in both paediatrics and general medicine. She graduated from Bogomolets National Medical University in Kyiv and completed her paediatric internship at the P.L. Shupyk National Medical Academy of Postgraduate Education. After working as a paediatrician in Kyiv, she relocated to Spain, where she has been practising general medicine since 2015, providing care for both adults and children.Her work focuses on urgent, short-term medical concerns – situations where patients need quick guidance, symptom assessment and clear next steps. She helps people understand whether their symptoms require in-person evaluation, home management or a change in treatment. Common reasons for booking an online consultation include:

  • acute respiratory symptoms (cough, sore throat, runny nose, fever)
  • viral illnesses such as colds and seasonal infections
  • gastrointestinal complaints (nausea, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, gastroenteritis)
  • sudden changes in how a child or adult feels
  • questions about existing treatment and whether adjustments are needed
  • renewal of prescriptions when clinically appropriate

Dr. Shalko works specifically with urgent and short-term problems, providing practical recommendations and helping patients determine the safest next step. She explains symptoms clearly, guides patients through decision-making and offers straightforward medical advice for everyday acute issues.She does not provide long-term management of chronic conditions, ongoing follow-up or comprehensive care plans for complex long-term illnesses. Her consultations are designed for acute symptoms, sudden concerns and situations where timely medical input is important.With clinical experience in both paediatrics and general medicine, Dr. Shalko confidently supports adults and children. Her communication style is clear, simple and reassuring, helping patients feel informed and supported throughout the consultation.

Book a video appointment
€56
Doctor
5.0(1)

Daria Portnova

Psychiatry31 years of experience

Dr Daria Portnova is a psychiatrist and psychotherapist with over 30 years of clinical experience. She works with adults and adolescents aged 14 and over, providing online psychiatric and psychotherapeutic consultations. In her practice, Dr Portnova supports patients facing the onset of mental health conditions, chronic psychiatric disorders, psychotic symptoms, trauma-related states, and complex emotional crises. Her work is structured and safety-focused, with an emphasis on stabilisation, accurate diagnosis, and long-term improvement in quality of life. Patients consult Dr Daria Portnova for the following concerns: 

  • existential crises and complex life situations;
  • loss, grief, and emotional exhaustion;
  • relationship difficulties, separation, and divorce;
  • psychological and psychiatric trauma, including complex PTSD (cPTSD);
  • anxiety disorders: generalised anxiety disorder and panic disorder;
  • social anxiety and social phobia;
  • obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD);
  • sleep disorders;
  • depressive disorders;
  • bipolar affective disorder;
  • schizoaffective disorder;
  • schizophrenia;
  • personality disorders.

Dr Portnova combines psychiatric assessment with a psychotherapeutic approach. She works with evidence-based methods, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and third-wave approaches such as ACT, FACT, and CFT. Consultations are focused on clear clinical understanding, practical recommendations, and ongoing support over time.

Book a video appointment
€116

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