Hi all. I’m new here but I’m seeking genuine advice. For the past 10 days I’ve been experiencing insomnia like never before. When I start falling asleep I suddenly feel like I’m genuinely dying and I forget to breathe & (feels like)my heart stops. I then jolt up with a pounding heart. It’s a horrid situation and it continues for hours until 5am or even 6am. I’m constantly checking my heart and I have palpitations & what feel like spasms. I live in the UK and it’s impossible to see a doctor currently. Physically I think I’m probably ok... I run 30 miles a week and lift weights most days. Diet is also ok. However my stress levels are off the charts for various reasons . Any tips on how to break this cycle would be welcome. I’ve tried meditation but I just can’t break through with it
Feels like I’m dying when falling asleep - Anxiety Support
Feels like I’m dying when falling asleep
Welcome Eyes so late12 Everything you are describing was me at one time. I totally understand
the symptoms you are feeling when trying to sleep. We don't actually forget
to breathe, our body wouldn't allow it. But the sensation is a part of our
over sensitized nervous system kicking in from stress.
What happened 10 days ago that prompted the insomnia to get to this point.
We are here to help answer any questions to get you through this from our
own experiences with Anxiety. I'm happy you are here with us xx
Thanks for the reply. I know rationally this is connected to stress but is completely overwhelming me physically. This has really been 24 months in the making. It’s all covid related really. Asides from losing job, displacement and disruption ... the main anxiety is the decision about my wife’s visa for UK is due very soon. We haven’t seen each other in nearly a year now. Literally all our future depends on this one decision by a British bureaucrat to allow my wife to come and live here. I suppose it’s just overwhelming stress but a lack of control. There’s literally nothing I can do
I am having the same problem these days , as soon as j am about to doze off i suddenly get an attack, i develop gas as well at that moment and get burps. Font know what happening and how to stop this :/
Have you ever thought you might be doing too much exercise wise ? Maybe worth having a weeks break from it and see if that helps. Might be a good idea to listen to soothing sounds or music before settling for sleep and beyond. Also try & think of nice places to be.imagine you are in that nice place be it a garden or walking along a beach.
I feel like I can’t sacrifice cutting down on exercise. It may sound stupid but I’m over 40 now. My wife is younger but our plan was to try for a baby two years ago but covid struck. After 40 there becomes more risks for a man. I feel I will lose my vitality and potency if I stop. In effect I have a existential dread I’m leaving it too late now. We married 3 years ago and had a solid life plan but it’s completely been shattered
I absolutely understand about meditation- but I found relaxation music helpful - you tube have specific ones that send sound waves to reduce stress so it does the hard work for you rather than being mindful
There could be so many different reasons for your sleep situation--seeing your doctor is a good idea. My community has a sleep centre that further investigates sleep problems--not sure if you have those resources--but seeing your doctor sounds like a good first step.
Eyes. It sounds like some stress related anxiety and or panic attacks . You need to see a doctor and have them go over your medical history. Hope it gets better .