Follow-Up:
I'm 40 years old, and not sure what's come over me, but about seven months ago I started jerking and feeling like I was gasping for air as I started to fall asleep at night. Soon after I started having panic attacks followed with trouble swallowing food or liquids. For some reason fear comes over me and I can't swallow without choking. I've tried a few medications and did not like the side effects, but I still take the Clonazepam that was prescribed to help me sleep, without it I would be a real mess. I have tried to sleep without Clonazepam and I get the jerks again. Before I went to a doctor my wife would have to hold me all night while I trembled and jerked until finally I would pass out from exhaustion. The Clonazepam helps with anxiety during the day, but is no cure for how I feel. My personality has been very edgy and I have a lowered tolerance dealing with people in any confrontations. In order for me to eat, I eat alone in quite areas. Little noises still cause me to choke on food, I'm easily spooked when I eat. Liquids are easier to get down, but sometimes that's tough also. The most stressful things for me that really start the anxiety are movies, restaurants, and any situation where I feel I have to sit and stay in one place. I even have difficulty swallowing my own saliva. Early evenings & nights are hard on me also. The funny thing is I know all of this is crazy and in my head, but I can't seem to get a grip. Most people see me as highly intelligent and healthy looking. I'm a Recording Studio Engineer, Architectural Draftsman, Builder/House Remodeler, Web Site Designer, amongst many other interest with computers. Maybe I'm overloaded? I'm wondering if someone else has these symptoms.