So i work in EMS and work 24 hour shifts and have been becoming sleep deprived. I sleep when i can, where i can. Well today after running a call, i climbed into bed at the station and fell asleep for about 1-2 hours. When suddenly i awoke in a panic, and could open my eyes. I was so confused! I thought i could feel my pulse through my eyes, but i realized my eyes were just moving fast. The only way i can explain it is that my eyes felt like they were racing nack and fourth at a very incredible rate. I immediately wanted to get out of bed because it felt as if i had awoken from a terrible nightmare, but i couldnt move! I couldnt open my eyes, and i was fighting as hard as i could to move my legs. I couldnt speak either, after what felt like 2 minutes i was able to finally move my legs and i jumped out of bed! Im sure it only lasted about 10-15 seconds, but it felt like it took forever. Im aware of sleep paralysis and REM sleep, but how common is it to have this happen to someone like it did to me? It was hands down the most terrifying thing that has ever happened to me.

Thanks