Hypnic jerk facts for kids

A hypnic jerk (also called a sleep twitch) is a sudden, quick muscle movement that happens just as you're falling asleep. It's not something you do on purpose; it's an involuntary movement. It can make you jump or twitch, sometimes waking you up for a moment.

Hypnic jerks are a type of muscle twitch called myoclonus. These twitches are quite common and can happen to anyone, even healthy people.

What Causes Hypnic Jerks?

Hypnic jerks can be linked to a few things. They might happen if you have irregular sleep patterns, meaning you don't go to bed and wake up at the same time each day.

Stress and Caffeine

Feeling stressed or anxious can also make hypnic jerks more likely. Certain things you eat or drink, like caffeine (found in coffee, tea, and some sodas), can also cause them.

Are Hypnic Jerks Normal?

Yes, hypnic jerks are usually completely normal and nothing to worry about. Most people experience them at some point in their lives. They are not a sign of a serious health problem.

See also

In Spanish: Espasmo mioclónico para niños