$Unique_ID{BRK00770}
$Pretitle{Mental and Emotional Conditions}
$Title{Why is a Series of Nightmares Occurring?}
$Subject{sleep nightmares causes}
$Volume{E-1}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Why is a Series of Nightmares Occurring?


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QUESTION:  As if out of the blue, I have started to have a series of
nightmares.  I awaken, frightened out of my wits, but manage to get back to
sleep.  I've tried to figure out why they are coming on now, but I haven't got
a clue.  Can you help?

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ANSWER:  Almost everyone experiences a nightmare once or twice a year, with no
lasting serious effects.  However when they begin to greater frequency, its
time to take stock.  Nightmares will occur with greater frequency during times
of physical or emotional stress, and will disappear when the situation is
resolved.  They may also occur during periods of illness.  Since neither seem
to be true in your case, is it possible you have recently started to take
medications for high blood pressure, or have you stopped taking tranquilizers
or sleeping pills?  Both situations can give rise to more frequent episodes of
nightmares.  Reducing a heavy use of alcohol, leading to subtle withdrawal
symptoms can be another cause, in an otherwise quiet life.  There are some
tips I can offer which may help.  Avoid cigarettes, caffeine or alcohol after
your evening meal.  Start a program of regular evening exercise, a long walk
to take the edge off.  Do not nap during the day, and avoid heavy meals.  A
light snack with a glass of milk at bedtime is helpful.  Try to engage in
relaxing mental activity during the evening hours, and then go to bed on a
regular schedule.  Don't force sleep, if you can't drift off quietly, get up
and read a relaxing novel until sleep calls.  If these tips do not
solve your problem, it's time for a visit with your physician for more help.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
