Sleep hallucinations and disturbed sleep

[LazyLinePainterJane]

I've been experiencing this for a while, that is, what I assume is some form of hallucinating whilst sleeping. They come and go but it involves me dreaming that I am awake and that usually, there is something (sometimes someone) in the room, bugs, animals, strange things I don't recognise, floating around the room towards me or in the bed. Sometimes, I get up and out of bed to get away from them followed shortly by waking up. Sometimes, I seem to throw pillows at whatever it is, still asleep. Sometimes I scream or panic. Slowly I wake up and every time I am shocked that it's not real.

I've just been dealing with it, I've always been a sleep talker and a weird dreamer. But last night, I actually started hitting Dh with my pillow. Evidently I thought he was some sort of intruder. It scared the shit out of him, not surprisingly

I did do a search and saw that someone referred to "hypnopompic hallucinations" back in 2004 and after research it seems to fit. I was just wondering if anyone has experienced the same and if so, have you seen a doctor? Is there any point?

If you've got this far, well done.

I'm a freak, aren't I?

Well, you have found a phrase which seems to describe what you are experiencing, so at least someone else has had the energy to name it.

I don't dream like that, but as it happens had some pretty vivid dreams last night anyway.

Why not ask a doctor? At the very least it will expand their knowledge and maybe help you feel you are taking this a little further. A dr might point you in a good direction if you have some specific questions, or might just listen well. Your DH might feel reassured if you do something too.

I used to elbow my husband by mistake in bed, but I can't blame that on sleep. as I was simply moving round the bed, fully awake...He did not like that!

No, you are not a freak, more likely a bit freaked out by your dream habits and quite naturally wondering what to do

This site might be helpful.

I'm not really sure of my facts but I think that this is something that is quite well recognised, and your GP might be able to help.

I have something a little bit similar but way, way milder.

This is something that is recognised, I am sure. I remember reading a little about it at one time. It happens to me, sometimes, although not as severe as yours.. I dream that I am awake and then when things seem so weird, or there is someone there I know shouldn't be, I try to scream, but no sound comes out, just a strained whisper, like when you lose your voice. I realise I am dreaming that I am awake and try to wake myself up. It's very difficult and I can't open my eyes. Eventually I will wake up out of it. It's horrible I agree but I have never been able to move like you, so for yours and everyone's safety you should perhaps speak to a doctor.

Thanks everyone, thought I would return to the thread to find it unanswered. Thanks for the link, Shaun, I shall have a look through.

Well, I guess it's off to the doctor though. They do have a way of making everything you say sound pathetic though.

Psychobabble, mine also come and go, I can go ages without any. I've been having them for about the last 4 years or so, but they've been getting worse. Sometimes they will be mild, and I can calm myself even before I wake and I know that it's not real but sometimes I would bet my life that what's happening is real. Scary, hey?

To the doctor!

The freakiest ones I have had definitely involve bugs of some kind. [shudders]

I shall let you know