Ask a doctor on the topic of General medicine

"Struck by lightning"

November 11, 2012 | 15,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Michael Schröter

Good morning,

It has happened to me several times at irregular intervals now that after going to bed, I feel like I have been "struck by lightning".

Last night, I had just fallen asleep when it struck me. I felt as if I had received an electric shock.

I was jolted out of sleep.

It feels like a "reset" is happening.

My heart stops for a moment, I jolt upright and then fall back down and things go back to "normal".

At least that's my perception.

This whole situation is very unsettling to me - I am afraid that the next "electric shock" could be my last...

Thank you for your assessment.

Dr. med. Michael Schröter

Good morning,

please have an EKG done by your family doctor or internist. Heart rhythm disorders need to be ruled out. If everything is fine from a cardiological perspective, a sleep lab is recommended to see what you actually do when falling asleep. Here, breathing disorders such as snoring, incorrect positioning, etc. can be identified.
And last but not least, the psychological aspect must also be considered, to see if any traumas are preventing you from letting go and falling asleep.

All the best and

Best regards

Dr. Schröter