patty,

I have a problem with nightmares or stressful dreams when I am not breathing correctly. I have a problem with Central Sleep Apnea when my neck is in a poor position and the C-1 cervical vertebra gets inflamed. Sometimes, it happens during the day when I am awake watching TV. I will suddenly start gasping for air. It usually means I have not been breathing.

If someone can observe you sleeping, have them check your breathing. You can buy or rent Pulse Ox meters for sleep that record your levels and even sound an alarm to wake you to start breathing again. A neck injury from your fall could be part of the cause.

My best to you.