Trouble initiating Sleep - Vagus Nerve problem?

[vagusgerd]

My symptoms:  (I have GERD and a slight hiatal hernia)
Big time trouble initiating sleep - At the time I am very relaxed and about to fall asleep I get a weird almost flutter feeling below my left ribcage. I feel as if I am almost paralyzed where I can't catch my breath.  I have to sit up and I get a weird nervous feeling in my left shoulder and arm.  After sitting up for 10 seconds feeling compelled to rub my arm the sensation goes away.  Sometimes depending on what I eat this may happend 6+ times before I go to sleep.  In the morning I awake with bags under my eyes.  Two weeks ago I had such a severe nerve reaction that my blood pressure went very low and I almost passed out.  That night I was at the casino and had a Buffalo chicken sandwich etc at 1am and had a few beers around 10pm.  Not a good idea.

How I have learned to control:
Limit your intake of coffee and alcohol.  If possible eliminate these 2 all together.  If you ingest either late at night you are not going to sleep.
I love spicey food.  Do not have in the evening.  If you are know you are going to have spicey food have a prilosec beforehand. Use whatever acid reflux med works for you.

Do not overeat or you are looking for trouble.
Eat small meals every 3.5 hours.  Do not eat after 6-7pm.
Diet is another subject all together.  I follow a low cholesterol diet.
I always believed all natural foods in moderation are good.  Stay away from spicy, saturated fat, too many carbs.  Again small meals is the key.

Exercise - Whatever works for you.   Be consistent try to get at least 20 minutes of some type of cardio workout at least 3 times a week.

Hope this helps.

Please reply back if you have had similar symptoms to mine and know of a cure or have any other good advice to add.