Sleeping Problem - Hyperawareness or hyperarousal - #11715
1 night in july this year i had distrupted night. Start the next day i wake up every time I start to fall asleep, triggered by awareness of my own breathing or snoring. I’ve been evaluated by ENT, and apnea was ruled out, but the problem persists. I believe this may be related to sleep-onset hyperarousal or a conditioned nervous system response. So i not sure if it is because of my nervous systemorhormone imbalance.
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Doctors’ responses
Hello Mathivaanan,
Your sleep disturbance seems linked more to hyperarousal of the nervous system rather than apnea, since ENT ruled that out. This means your brain is staying alert when you try to sleep, often triggered by self awareness of breathing or snoring.
1. Sleep hygiene - Follow a fixed sleep schedule, avoid screens, caffeine, and heavy meals at night.
2. Relaxation- Deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation before bed reduces hyperawareness.
3. Behavioral therapy - Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT I) is highly effective in breaking the conditioned pattern of awakening.
4. Medical evaluation - Thyroid, hormone, and nervous system balance can influence sleep, so get blood tests if not already done.
5. Short term support – In some cases, mild sleep aids or anxiety calming medicines may be prescribed by a doctor for temporary relief.
6. Reassurance - This is usually not dangerous, but persistent, so addressing stress and lifestyle factors helps long term recovery.
Hi Mathivaanan,
Most likely it is: conditioned hyperarousal of the nervous system. You can do :
Try breathing exercises (4-7-8) Try CBT 1 behavioural therapy Instead of “trying to fall asleep,” tell yourself “I’ll just lie here awake and breathe.” This reduces pressure. Do regular exercise No Caffeine / Nicotine
If persistent,please consult a sleep medicine specialist or psychiatrist in person to assess your hormones and stress And they will start therapy accordingly.
Feel free to ask I hope this helps Thank you
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