strange sleep problems

[diddles1]

i have been having a reoccurring problem at night when i go to sleep it can happen up to 3 or 4 times a night and it is very strange and hard to explain.
My body jolts and i wake up i find it hard to swallow and feel i have to concentrate on breathing, because if i don't i might not wake up, which usually makes it worse because then i want to go to sleep but am scared to, this happens up to 3 times a night and feels like its hours at a time sometimes but its probably minutes.

This has been happening for about a year and happens most nights, i now find myself in a vicious circle as i don't want to try and sleep as i know this is going to happen.

Has anyone experienced this, i did tell my Doctor who Didn't know what to say?????

[nursegirl6572]

You need to first be seen by your doctor to rule out a sleep disorder, or possible conditions like sleep apnea (which your symptoms sound like to an extent).  Once you get the all clear medically, you can start addressing this as an anxiety issue with your doctor.

[remar]

It sounds like you might be having panic attacks in your sleep. Have you been diagnosed with anxiety?