8 Embarrassing Sleep Secrets

By Jennifer Soong
WebMD Feature
Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD

If you're confiding in a friend about sleep problems, the conversation might turn to topics like not getting enough rest or tossing and turning at night. But what about things your body does during sleep - like drooling, snoring, bed-wetting, or passing gas - that you might be embarrassed to talk about by the light of day?

For example, take Kindra Hall, vice president of sales at a network marketing firm in Phoenix. She admits that drooling excessively while sleeping is a major source of embarrassment, especially when she's been caught in the act. Soaked bed pillows and stained throw pillows are constant reminders of her humiliating habit.

"I'm very conscious about saliva control," Hall tells WebMD via email, "but as soon as my eyes are closed and I enter dreamland, all bets are off."

You might not even be aware of your sleeping habits -- until your bed partner clues you in. Sometimes, these behaviors are a part of the natural sleep process. Other times, what you might consider a nuisance -- like snoring -- could be a sign of an underlying sleep problem.

"It's important for people to realize what is a normal phenomenon versus something that needs further evaluation," says William Kohler, MD, medical director of Florida Sleep Institute in Spring Hill, Fla.

Here is the lowdown on your nighttime habits - why they happen and when they could be a sign of something more serious.

Habit #1: Snoring

An estimated 37 million American adults snore on a regular basis, according to the National Sleep Foundation.

Snoring is caused by airway narrowing and tissue vibrations in the nasal passages and throat. Snoring can be associated with colds and allergies, but can also be a sign of a more serious problem, like obstructive sleep apnea.

"It's not really the loudness that's concerning, it's whether the obstruction that's causing snoring is also causing respiratory impairment at night," Kohler says.
 
The verdict: Snoring is a common problem, but if you suspect that it's disrupting your sleep, you should get a medical evaluation.

Habit #2: Drooling

Drooling in your sleep can be a normal phenomenon or it can occur in medical conditions that increase salivation, Kohler says. If you drool regularly, you may want to find out if you are at risk for a blocked airway at night or sleep apnea.  

The verdict: Drooling can be normal, but it can also be associated with other medical conditions.

Habit #3: Sleepwalking

"The odd things that happen in the night that get people's attention tend to be things that are scary or potentially dangerous, like complicated episodes of sleepwalking," says Helene Emsellem, MD, medical director of the Center for Sleep & Wake Disorders in Chevy Chase, Md.

"We should be paralyzed while we're in the dream phase of sleep. If there's a failure of the normal paralysis that protects us from acting out our dreams, then we can potentially be dangerous and inadvertently hurt ourselves or a bed partner," Emsellem says.

In extreme cases, someone might go into the kitchen, turn on the stove, and forget to turn it off without any memory of the incident.

The verdict: If you're acting out complex behaviors during sleep, it's time to see a doctor to figure out what's going on.

Habit #4: Talking in Your Sleep

Talking in your sleep, whether it sounds like a conversation or just mumbling, is usually harmless by itself. But screaming and yelling with intense fear are associated with night terrors, which are more common in children than adults. They occur during REM sleep, so you will not remember it in the morning. 

The verdict: Don't lose sleep over talking in your sleep.

Habit #5: Bed-wetting

"Bed-wetting is embarrassing and distressing, but a once-in-a-blue-moon episode is not particularly concerning, especially if you're dreaming about going to the bathroom", Emsellem says.

"However, repeated bedwetting could indicate a problem, such as nocturnal seizures. Bowel movements during sleep are unusual", Emsellem says, "so one instance should merit a visit to the doctor.

The verdict: You can write off one bedwetting episode, but you should see a doctor if you have repeat performances.

Habit #6: Nocturnal Orgasms

"Nocturnal orgasms, sometimes referred to as wet dreams, can occur on a regular basis for men and women, typically during REM sleep. That's a normal phenomenon that occurs throughout our life." Kohler says. 

The Verdict: Completely natural.

Habit #7: Flatulence
 
Passing gas can occur during sleep, but most people aren't aware of it. "It depends a lot on the GI tract and what you're eating," Kohler says. "There's nothing pathologic, but it can be embarrassing if your partner tells you about it." The verdict: Examine your diet if you're gassing up the entire room.

Habit #8: Twitching

"When you're nodding off, you may experience a release phenomenon known as a hypnic jerk. Your body may twitch, or you may experience a visual or audio component like seeing flashing lights or hearing a popping sound." 

The verdict: Hypnic jerks are generally benign.

Time to Seek Help?

"For so many years, we've ignored sleep as being an important part of health," Kohler says. "We talk about nutrition, weight gain, weight loss, and exercise. Sleep is extremely important to our functioning. We need to be aware that both quality and quantity is important."
 
"People also need to be aware of what they're doing while they're sleeping. So stick to this basic rule of thumb: If you're having a persistent problem that is disturbing to you or your bed partner, get it checked out."

Source

What Am I Doing??

For the past couple days I have been doing a "Sleep Study" in Ft. Worth, and I have to tell you, I have had the best time here!! The people are extra sweet and have a sense of humor, which is so important!! Of course they are all a bit perplexed by me in things like: where should we touch you; where should we put the electrode wires; but the best one is: how are should we pull to get the electrode wires off....hahahaha. Then when they do anything, they simply can't understand why I am laughing and upbeat...one lady said if she had everything I have been diagnosed with she would be the grumpiest old woman on the face of the earth..haha.

The reason I am posting this is because I have received several emails from people wondering where I have been and/or what I am up to.....so now everyone will know.=)
Although once I get back home I had planned on posting all about my experience with pictures of the room, me all wired up, and things, along with a couple videos I did for your viewing pleasure. haha

I must admit, I was extremely curious as to what the room would be like, what all do they do in a sleep study, etc. and now you all will be able to see the room from the other side of their camera!! Oh, and they said they could burn me a copy of the entire thing....how cool is that!! I might even be compelled to post that on here as well...maybe...hahaha.

Oops, gotta scoot, they just told me I have another testing in 10 minutes, and I have to shut everything down and off.

Make it an Amazing Day....Every Day!!

Ideas to Empower YOU in Pain Survival !!

Remember to have fun—and seize the day!

Self-Care -- Relaxation/Meditation

* Take a long bubble bath and light some candles.
* Slow down—and breath deeply…
* Use aromatherapy—relax to your favorite scents.
* Meditate, with a group or by yourself.
* Listen or make music (i.e., play a CD, sing or play an instrument.)
* Get a massage by a professional masseuse – or someone you love…
* Seek out things that make you laugh—remember, laughter is the best medicine!
* Buy a bouquet of flowers to cheer up your surroundings!
* Grow something—commune with Mother Nature!
* Stir your imagination—imagine a pleasant experience, moment, sensation…
* Make or craft something (i.e., knit a scarf, do pottery, etc.)
* Go to an outdoor concert, and don’t forget to pack a picnic.
* Treat yourself to a manicure and/or pedicure. Be a Queen for a day!
* Explore an antique store—lose yourself among the treasures…

Cognitive/Mental Strategies

* Practice mindfulness—be in the moment…
* Try art therapy (i.e., paint or draw a picture that shows how you feel!)
* Use narrative therapy (i.e., write your pain experience.)
* Keep a gratitude/affirmation log (write down three things you’re grateful for each day.)
* When depression and/or anxiety hits, don’t fight it. Know it’s a part of the natural pain experience.
But don’t hold on for too long…
* Accept that everything you’re feeling is real and normal.
* Take a class, learn something new—and stimulate your mind!
* Wear a bright color—they excite the senses!
* Reflect upon affirming, positive memories…
* Read a great book—or a breezy romance novel.
* Express your true and authentic self. You’re the only you!
* Think positive, affirming things about yourself.
* Take a trip, even if it’s a virtual one.
* Seek support through a professional pain counselor.
* Make a change and surprise yourself (i.e., get a new haircut, try a new recipe, etc.)
* Get dressed up and put your make-up on, just because it makes you feel good!
* Keep a positive attitude, hang in there and keep the faith!
* Practice appreciation for your healthcare providers—more often than not, they’re trying their best to help…
* On a bad day, remember what Scarlet O’Hara said, “Tomorrow is another day!”
* Notice and appreciate the splendor of the season changes…
* Learn a foreign language…or two! Exercise that part of the brain that doesn’t read pain signals.
* Choose something you love, and do it every week, same day and time. A joyful routine gives you something sweet to look forward to…
* Don’t let your pain define you. Remember that while pain is now a part of your life experience, it’s not your identity.

Care of the Body

* Exercise regularly and keep your body moving. Hydrotherapy in warm water is especially effective with pain conditions.
* Eat a healthy diet (fruits, vegetables, lean meats, etc.)
* Avoid or quit smoking!
* Practice good sleep habits—enjoy waking up refreshed and renewed.
* Be open to alternative and complimentary therapies (i.e., acupuncture, guided imagery, etc.)
* Have realistic expectations about therapies (i.e., have you given your physical therapy regimen enough time to help?)
* Educate yourself about your pain condition. But don’t obsess and let it consume you…
* Listen to your body talk—you know it better than anyone else!
* Learn to say “no”—avoid stress by not over-burdening/committing yourself.
* Spend time in the sun—and don’t forget that all-important sun block!
* Practice good posture. A well-aligned and supported spine is virtually guaranteed to help any pain condition.

Relationships

* Do something nice for someone—it feels good, and that energy is sure to come back your way.
* Learn to forgive those who have disappointed you throughout your pain experience; anger is further fuel for pain!
* Adopt a pet. Unconditional love is good for the soul…
* Give someone a hug—who knows, you might just get two back!
* Volunteer for your favorite charity, school or organization. Doing good is chicken soup for the soul!
* Throw yourself a party. Celebrate an accomplishment with family and friends!
* Get involved in your community (i.e., attend neighborhood council meetings, help plan a block party, etc.)
* Seek out fellow chronic pain sufferers through on-line discussion boards and support groups at medical centers. These bonds could last a lifetime.
* Don’t forget about lovemaking with your partner. Intimacy is second to none to revive the soul and senses!
* Spend quality time with a child or children (yours, nieces or nephews, etc.)—they’ll help you see the world with eyes of wonder!
* Have an afternoon tea with some girlfriends.
* Accept an invitation to a party or other social event, even if you’re in pain. It’s great misdirection—and you’ll probably find yourself having a dandy time!
* Be open to talking to family and friends about your pain experience—and answering their naturally inquisitive questions. If they’re curious, they probably care. Try not to shut them out…
* Remove toxic people from your life—as stress and strain that comes from bad relationships makes pain worse. It’s appropriate to walk away from inappropriate people!

Assertiveness

* Remember it’s your body—and ultimately all possible treatment options are your choice.
* Be prepared for your doctor visits (i.e., have questions ready, be educated about your pain condition(s), etc.)
* Partner with your doctor. You’ll get better pain care results if you work as a team.

Find a good advocate at your health insurance company.

* Bring a family member or friend with you when you go to a doctor’s appointment. They can advocate for you—and it’s good for your doctor to know someone cares and is watching out for you.
* Examine and weigh your therapy options—the biggest “guns” may not be the answer for you.
* Don’t let your doctor pressure you into a therapy that you don’t want to do!
* Interview your pain management provider (i.e., What kind of therapies do you support for my condition?, Are you open to alternative/complimentary therapies?, etc.)
* Remember, one size doesn’t fit all when it comes to pain treatments. We’re all unique—and what helps one person may not help another.
* Seek out references with any doctor referral (i.e., talk to other patients, look up his/her standing with the state medical board, etc.)
* Make sure your treating healthcare professional is assessing your pain level during each visit—remember, pain assessment is “the fifth vital sign.”
* Find out if your hospital and/or clinic has a “Patient’s Bill of Rights”—and if so, make sure your treating healthcare professionals are following it.
* Learn about the potential side effects of any and all medications you are considering or presently taking. Sometimes their adverse side effects can create more harm than the problem you’re taking the medication(s) for.
* Run—don’t walk!—from any physician or other healthcare professional who doubts, dismisses and/or discounts your report of pain!
* Encourage your family and friends to educate themselves about your pain condition(s) (i.e., provide them with website resources, articles, etc.)
* Educate yourself about all of your therapy/treatment options (including complimentary and alternative choices)—this will enable you to make the best, most informed decisions about your pain management care.

Clinical Advice

* Using a rating scale such as 0 to10 (0 = no pain, 10 = worst pain) is a useful way to communicate your pain to others and assess changes in your own pain.
* Use the rating scale to rate how much relief you are receiving. For example, if your pain therapy relieves your pain from a “10” to a “7”, this is a good step. But knowing your pain is a “7” should suggest that you still require additional help.
* Prevention of pain is key. Anticipate things that bring your pain on (exhaustion, dehydration, stress, etc.) and make every attempt to prevent pain versus responding only when it happens.
* When taking pain medication, always consider what non-drug treatment you could use along with it. Using heat/cold/massage/relaxation can diminish anxiety and distract you from the pain until the medication can begin working.
* Discover accurate and effective words to describe your pain (i.e., burning, stabbing, aching, pins and needles, electrical, throbbing, etc.) to help your healthcare provider with diagnosis and treatment.
* For chronic pain problems, it is generally better to take medications on a regular, around-the-clock schedule rather than only on a “prn”/as needed basis only when pain is severe.
* Fortunately, there are many choices of analgesics (be it traditional, complementary or alternative)—so if a particular pain therapy that has been prescribed doesn’t work or causes side-effects, ask to try another.
* In general for chronic pain, long-lasting medications are preferred to offer several hours of undisturbed sleep or activity.
* If your doctor prescribes physical therapy, be sure to find a therapist you have a repore with. Explain your symptoms carefully, and go over your doctor’s report together. Also be sure to immediately alert your therapist to any pain you’re experiencing as a result of a therapy exercise.
* “Breakthrough pain” is pain that occurs in episodes between doses of medications. Discuss this with your physician to determine if breakthrough medications are needed.
* Inactivity or decreased function is a major problem in chronic pain and results in muscle weakness, dependence, depression—and this cycle only worsens over time. Try to maintain activity if at all possible.
* Depression and anxiety are generally an integral part of the pain experience—and can become severe. Don’t hesitate to tell your pain management provider about these feelings and indeed ask for a referral for a support group and/or psychologist. Your doctor should know psychologists who specialize in pain.

Together, we THRIVE!!