WHy do I keep waking up in the middle of the night at the same time?

Question

For the past three months I have been waking up around 2:30 - 3:00am in a pool of sweat, and I find myself in a state of dread and fear. Like someone is pushing my chest down. I then can't fall asleep for an hour until it goes away. Now it's to effect my work days. What is this that im experiencing?

I forgot to mention that it only happens like three or four times a week. Some nights when I don't have to work the next day I'm perfectly fine and have a good nights rest.

Answer 1

Maybe stress/anxiety. Could be job related since you say it doesn't happen when you don't have to work. Anxiety, even in your sleep, can cause your chest to contract in a physiological reaction to psychological stress. On the other hand, it might be something that you are doing/eating/drinking on a regular basis before bed on those nights. Keep a journal of your activities or try writing down your stresses before you sleep so they don't creep in in the night.

Answer 2

Patients with bartonella often have complaints similar to what you have described. It is a bacterium carried by many vectors (e.g., cats, fleas, ticks, mosquitoes). It is the same sort of bacteria that can cause trench fever, endocarditis, myocarditis, etc. Your drenching night sweats couple with the cardiac symptoms (e.g., "like someone is pushing my chest down") are certainly suspicious for this infection.

You would be wise to be screened for this condition.

~M~

Answer 3

Maybe you are having a nightmare that you can't recollect?

I think that you should see your doctor and possibly go to a sleep lab where they can watch you while you sleep to diagnose any disorder you may have.

Most people suffer from sleep apnea its when you stop breathing for a split second while asleep..but Ive never heard of a pushing feeling on your chest. I really think you should see a professional, especially since chest pain/pressure can be dangerous/fatal.

Answer 4

Very obviously it is stress, related to work or a problem with a collegue at work. Try changing your sleep pattern.Maybe going to bed a little later when you are too tired or drowsy you are will help. But you need to discuss this with a doctor.

Answer 5

unless you've been scratched or bitten by a cat with fleas lately, i doubt it's bartonella.
what you're describing happens to alot of folks. could be anything. nightmares that you can't recall, exhaustion,depression. since it is affecting your daily life, it would be a good idea to consult your doc about it. good luck.

Answer 6

Time to get a new job, the pressure is to much for you.

Answer 7

Some say its god or the devil time 2 pray to your maker.

Answer 8

u need to make a diabetes test

Answer 9

I do that alot. Heck, I just thought I was retarted.....