Hypnic Jerks

[shamrock]

I have been treated at CCF for hypnic jerks for about 4 years now.  After about 8 years with this condition I have done extensive research and can never seem to find out the cause.  Any new discoveries about this and why?  

Thank you.

Shamrock

[Lele Bug]

Hi Shamrock,

I have to say that I was dissapointed to see your posting. I have followed your case on the various forums for three years since my jerks started. I hadn't seen anything from you for quite a long time and had hoped you had found a cure which meant one was possible for this dreaded thing we have.

I do have some stuff to share with you that has helped me. Recently I discovered that I had pretty good nights if I drank a sports drink like gatorade before I went to bed. I discovered it totally by accident but it started me looking at minerals. I tried to duplicate the results with supplements but with no luck. It seems liquid form is better. I have however found that if I take the GNC Women's Ultra Mega vitamins I get similar results. I'm not sure what makes the difference but it I think it has something to do with the balance of calcium, potassium, magnesium and B vitamins. Anyway, I wanted to pass this along in case you could get some help from it.

I am curious to know if you are a woman that is near or in menopause. I have read on some womens forums that this is one of the symptoms of peri or full blown menopause and thought I would look into some of the natural hormones that seem to be helping so many. Have you heard anything about this?

Also, my problem seems to really flare under times of stress. Is this true for you also?

Finally, I read recently that this is symptom of fibromyalgia and is considered an alpha beta brain wave abnormality but I haven't been able to track down much about that. Was wondering if you had ever run across this in your research.

Anyway, please update me on how you are doing when you get a chance. Lele Bug

[grampyclaus]

I never knew this experience had a name.  I've been getting these jerks for the past couple of months and don't know why.  Just as I'm drifting off to sleep, my arm, hand, leg, foot or whole body jerk.  This happens repeatedly and it often takes me several hours to fall asleep and I'm bleary eyed in the morning.  I've been thinking of going to a neurologist.  Does anyone think that's a good idea?  Are there any kinds of treatments people know of?

[shamrock]

It's definitly a good idea to see a neurologist.  And if you don't find relief keep pursuing it.  For years I went to different doctors who had no idea what I was describing.  I even went to 2 sleep clinics.  After a few years of reseach on my own I found out it was hypnagogic or hypnic jerks and then made an appointment at the CCF.  Be thankful you at least can get some sleep.  I was unable to work for a few years due to sleep deprivation.  While the medication isn't perfect it gave me my life back of which I am incredibly thankful.  Good Luck.