Recurrent isolated sleep paralysis

This code describes a sleep disorder characterized by repeated episodes of an inability to move or speak either at sleep onset (hypnagogic) or upon awakening (hypnopompic), without accompanying narcolepsy or cataplexy. Patients remain fully conscious and aware during these transient episodes of muscle atonia.

Assign this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of recurrent isolated sleep paralysis. This typically occurs in patients presenting with complaints of being "stuck" or "paralyzed" during transitions into or out of sleep, and where a workup has ruled out narcolepsy or other underlying medical conditions.

• Ensure documentation specifies "isolated" and "recurrent" to differentiate from sleep paralysis as a symptom of other conditions.
• Do not use this code if the sleep paralysis is part of a narcolepsy diagnosis; instead, code for narcolepsy (e.g., G47.41X).
• Review the patient's history for any associated psychiatric conditions or substance use that might contribute to sleep disturbances, and code those comorbid conditions as appropriate.