Periodic Body Jerks During Sleep: A Neurological Insight

Q: Periodic Body Jerks During Sleep: A Neurological Insight

Hello： Based on your description, it is possible that you are experiencing Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD). <br>I recommend seeking assistance from a neurologist or a sleep specialist, or visiting a hospital with a sleep center. <br>Depending on the situation, blood tests

Rhythmic twitching of various body parts during sleep?

Hello, doctor.
I am a 28-year-old female, 160 cm tall and weighing 43 kg.
I am a "sleep-onset" type.
My partner has informed me that while I am asleep, my body exhibits rhythmic shaking or twitching, which feels like an electric current passing through.
This usually occurs from the feet upwards or from the head downwards, with my toes suddenly curling, followed by leg twitching, arm shaking, hand clenching, and sometimes my teeth clenching (or making a sound as if I am swallowing saliva).
It is not limited to a single body part; each episode involves multiple areas shaking in succession.
The observed episodes typically begin about 5-10 minutes after I fall asleep, occurring approximately every 3-5 minutes, with the longest observation period being around 1 hour after falling asleep.
After that, I have not noticed any further occurrences, so I am unsure if they continue until morning.
Upon waking, I sometimes experience mild headaches, but my overall mental state is good, and I do not feel sleep-deprived.
I would appreciate your analysis of this situation.

You Tai Tai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/06/13

Dr. Hong Weibin reply Neurology

Hello: Based on your description, it is possible that you are experiencing Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD).
I recommend seeking assistance from a neurologist or a sleep specialist, or visiting a hospital with a sleep center.
Depending on the situation, blood tests and a polysomnography may be necessary.
For sleep studies, you can refer to institutions certified by the Taiwan Society of Sleep Medicine, such as the website https://tssm.org.tw/check.php.

Reply Date: 2022/06/13

More Info

Based on your description, it sounds like you may be experiencing a condition known as Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD). This disorder is characterized by involuntary, repetitive movements of the limbs during sleep, which can often be rhythmic and occur at regular intervals. The movements you described, such as jerking of the feet, legs, arms, and even facial muscles, align with the symptoms of PLMD.
PLMD typically occurs during the non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep phase, particularly in the early stages of sleep. The movements can disrupt sleep and may lead to feelings of tiredness or headaches upon waking, although you mentioned that you generally feel well-rested. The fact that your partner observes these movements shortly after you fall asleep suggests that they are indeed happening during the initial stages of your sleep cycle.

The underlying causes of PLMD can vary. In some cases, it may be associated with other sleep disorders, such as restless legs syndrome (RLS), or it could be linked to other medical conditions, including neurological disorders, iron deficiency, or even certain medications. Stress, anxiety, and irregular sleep patterns can also exacerbate these symptoms.

Given that you are experiencing these periodic jerks and movements, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, specifically a neurologist or a sleep specialist. They may recommend a sleep study (polysomnography) to monitor your sleep patterns and movements throughout the night. This study can help determine the frequency and intensity of the movements, as well as assess any potential disruptions to your sleep architecture.

In addition to a sleep study, the healthcare provider may conduct a thorough medical history and physical examination to rule out other potential causes of your symptoms. They might also inquire about your lifestyle, including your sleep habits, diet, and any medications you are currently taking, as these factors can influence sleep quality and movement disorders.

Treatment for PLMD can vary based on the severity of the symptoms and their impact on your sleep quality. In some cases, lifestyle modifications, such as improving sleep hygiene, reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, and managing stress, can be beneficial. If the movements are significantly disrupting your sleep, your doctor may consider pharmacological treatments, such as dopaminergic agents or other medications that can help regulate movement during sleep.

In summary, while the periodic body jerks you are experiencing during sleep may be indicative of PLMD, a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional is essential to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other potential issues. With appropriate assessment and management, it is possible to improve your sleep quality and overall well-being.

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