Waking up gasping for air, or feeling like you can’t move? It’s a frightening experience, and it’s easy to confuse sleep apnea with sleep paralysis. Although they can feel similar in the moment, they’re actually two different conditions — each with its own causes and symptoms.

Let’s explore how to tell them apart:

⚖️ Key Differences Between Sleep Apnea and Sleep Paralysis

1️⃣ Awareness
For most people with sleep apnea, they’re unaware of what’s happening. Often, it’s a partner or family member who notices the pauses in breathing and loud snoring.
On the other hand, sleep paralysis episodes are marked by a disturbing conscious awareness. You know you’re awake, but your body won’t respond.

2️⃣ Snoring
Snoring is a classic sign of sleep apnea — especially obstructive sleep apnea. The airway becomes blocked, leading to those loud, rumbling sounds.
With sleep paralysis, snoring isn’t a symptom. However, you may still snore separately due to other causes.

3️⃣ Hallucinations
Sleep paralysis can come with vivid hallucinations — seeing shadowy figures, hearing voices, or feeling a heavy presence.
These intense hallucinations are extremely rare in sleep apnea.

4️⃣ Paralysis
The biggest red flag for sleep paralysis? Total or partial paralysis. During an episode, you may not be able to move, speak, or even blink.
In contrast, sleep apnea doesn’t cause true paralysis — it disrupts your breathing, but you’re not stuck in a frozen state of consciousness.

🛌 What to Do if You’re Experiencing These Symptoms?

If you suspect you’re dealing with sleep apnea or sleep paralysis, don’t brush it off! Both can disrupt your sleep and leave you feeling exhausted, anxious, or even fearful of going to bed.

Reach out to a sleep health expert like Noxify Sleep. They can help diagnose the condition and guide you toward treatment options to reclaim restful nights and peaceful mornings.