Violent Sleep Episodes

[tarzandaddyman]

Lately, as I drift off to sleep, I have been experiencing violent episodes. These are not your typical "monkey jerk" or falling sensations.  Rather, unable to breathe and or swallow, I throw myself onto my stomach; dig my fingers as hard as I can into my mattress; arch up and shake my head furiously from side to side.  This action appears to kick-start my breathing.  My heart rate is rapid - from the effort.  There is little or no fear or panic associated with these episodes except when a single round of shaking fails to kick-start my breathing, and I have to go again.  Obviously, I'm not getting enough quality sleep, and this is taking its toll.  Is there anybody who has had similar episodes or who knows what might be happening here?  Andrew


This discussion is related to Myoclonic jerk and Hypnagogic jerk.

[sugar2003]

I have been having the same symptoms that you have been having.I cant seem to breathe or swallow for just a second or so.It only happens when i am laying down and this goes on until i fall asleep. I have noticed this only when i am stressed. I am on 20 Mg of Paxil. I was on Zoloft and i thought i was having a nervous breakdown so i changed to Paxil in the last couple of days. Also my husband will do this also but his is Acid Reflux he will get up and set up straight in bed and be choking and gasping for air he said that the only time he has noticed this is when he has bad acid reflux which when you lay down all that comes back up in his throat and stops his breathing. i hope this helps.