Re: severe sleep issues

I get them too, usually when initially trying to fall asleep. I'll jolt straight up and gasp for air with a feeling that I had stopped breathing. It can sometimes take me hours to fall asleep. If it is waking you up while in a deep sleep, then it is probably sleep apnea which I used to get too. I'd literally stop breathing and wake up gasping for air. I know for me, the "jerks" are worse if I am extremely tired. Which is cruel b/c I am usually extremely tired when I can't get to sleep b/c of these stupid episodes. I also used to get, every once in a while, night terrors, when you're not entirely awake, but your eyes are open and you can see, but you can't move a muscle in your body...and you hallucinate a bit and it's usually bad thoughts. That, I am told, is a form of narcolepsy. Thankfully, that only happens to me once every two years or so. That used to happed to my mother too.

My guess is that your other sleep study went well b/c you knew someone was watching and you felt safe. When my husband is awake and alert, I can fall asleep like a baby. But when he's asleep or travelling, that's usually when I have my episodes. Try some relaxation techniques before going to bed. Deep breathing, warm baths, etc. Try to get another sleep study done too.

I don't have answers for you, but I wanted you to know you aren't the only one this happens to. Are you particularly stressed from something going on in your life? Tweet