Body Vibrations During Sleep: Causes and When to Seek Help

Q: Body Vibrations During Sleep: Causes and When to Seek Help

Dear Ms. <br>R：<br>1. <br>Chlorzoxazone (200 mg) acts on the spinal polysynaptic reflex pathways related to skeletal muscle spasms, thereby blocking nerve conduction. <br>It is a centrally acting muscle relaxant that alleviates abnormal muscle tension without affecting normal mus

Whole body shaking during sleep?

I have been experiencing some insomnia lately, and last night I couldn't sleep.
While lying down, I suddenly felt my whole body vibrating, but it subsided within about 5 minutes.
After that, I noticed some soreness in my thigh and arm muscles, which would twitch for a few seconds (visible to the naked eye).
The twitching of my eyelids has also become more frequent.
I have been taking the following medications: A.T.
Tablets, Chlorzoxazone Tablets, Diphenidol, Mozapry F.C.
Tablets, and Alledine F.C.
Tablets.
I'm unsure if these symptoms are normal muscle twitches, side effects from the medications, or if I need to seek medical attention.
If I need to see a doctor, which specialty should I consult?

R, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/09/22

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine

Dear Ms.
R:
1.
Chlorzoxazone (200 mg) acts on the spinal polysynaptic reflex pathways related to skeletal muscle spasms, thereby blocking nerve conduction.
It is a centrally acting muscle relaxant that alleviates abnormal muscle tension without affecting normal muscle function.
After administration, significant muscle relaxation occurs within 30 to 60 minutes, with effects lasting approximately 6 hours.
It does not have cumulative or habit-forming side effects, and it does not impact normal muscle function.
Side effects may include allergic reactions, drowsiness, dizziness, chest tightness, vomiting, constipation, and liver function impairment.
2.
Mozapry®, generically known as Mosapride, is a selective serotonin 5-HT4 agonist that stimulates the 5-HT4 receptors in the enteric nervous system, increasing the release of acetylcholine, thereby promoting gastrointestinal motility and gastric emptying.
The main side effects include diarrhea, soft stools (1.8%), thirst (0.5%), and fatigue (0.3%).
3.
Alledine®, known generically as Fexofenadine, is an antihistamine primarily used to relieve symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis and chronic spontaneous urticaria in adults and children over 6 years old.
Side effects may include drowsiness, headache, and gastrointestinal discomfort.
4.
Diphenidol can be used to treat vertigo caused by inner ear disorders (including vascular disturbances and post-traumatic vertigo) and Meniere's disease.
The main side effects are thirst, chest burning sensation, and blurred vision.
5.
A.T.®, generically known as Acetaminophen, is primarily used for fever reduction and pain relief.
Side effects may include nausea, stomach pain, itching, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, and jaundice; however, these are uncommon.
6.
It is recommended that you first discuss this with your prescribing physician or seek consultation at a regional hospital's neurology department.

Reply Date: 2021/09/22

More Info

Experiencing body vibrations during sleep can be a perplexing and concerning symptom. It’s important to understand that these sensations can arise from various causes, and determining the underlying reason is crucial for appropriate management.
Body vibrations, or the sensation of shaking or trembling, can occur during sleep or while transitioning between sleep and wakefulness. This phenomenon may be related to several factors, including sleep disorders, muscle spasms, anxiety, or even side effects from medications. In your case, the medications you mentioned—Chlorzoxazone, Diphenidol, and others—could potentially contribute to these sensations. Chlorzoxazone, for instance, is a muscle relaxant that can cause drowsiness and may affect muscle control, potentially leading to involuntary muscle movements or spasms.
Muscle twitching or spasms, particularly in the limbs, can also be a normal occurrence known as myoclonic jerks. These are sudden, involuntary muscle contractions that can happen as you fall asleep or during sleep. While they are often benign, they can be exacerbated by stress, fatigue, or certain medications. The fact that you are experiencing muscle soreness and twitching could suggest that your body is reacting to either the medications or possibly to stress and anxiety, which can also manifest physically.

Given your symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. You should consider visiting a neurologist or a sleep specialist. A neurologist can evaluate for any underlying neurological conditions that might be causing these sensations, while a sleep specialist can assess for sleep disorders such as restless leg syndrome, periodic limb movement disorder, or sleep apnea, which could also contribute to your experiences.

In addition to seeking medical advice, there are several self-care strategies you can implement to help manage your symptoms. Ensuring good sleep hygiene is essential. This includes maintaining a regular sleep schedule, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and avoiding stimulants like caffeine or nicotine close to bedtime. Engaging in relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or gentle stretching before bed, may also help reduce anxiety and promote better sleep quality.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you experience additional concerning symptoms such as significant pain, changes in consciousness, or other unusual neurological signs, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention.
In summary, while body vibrations during sleep can be benign, they can also indicate an underlying issue that may require further investigation. Consulting with a healthcare professional, particularly a neurologist or sleep specialist, will provide you with the best course of action to address your symptoms and improve your overall sleep quality.

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