What Are Hypnic Jerks In Children : Everything You Need To Know
What are hypnic jerks?
People with hypnic jerks may fall out of bed or fall through a void. It can also be caused by excessive tiredness. Caffeine and alcohol consumption in the afternoon and before bed may increase the frequency of hypnic jerks. Caffeine and alcohol consumption can also have a negative effect on sleep, so they should be avoided. Caffeine and alcohol consumption should be minimized after midday. The most common trigger of hypnic jerks is anxiety or stress. Chronic stress can cause the brain to misfire and result in paranoia or delusions. A person’s state of mind is also a contributing factor, so it is important to get plenty of rest. During this period, the body tries to get rest and sleep. But too much caffeine or too much alcohol can disrupt this natural process.
What causes hypnic jerks in children?
Insomnia and diagnosed anxiety disorders can also contribute to hypnic jerks. Insomnia and anxiety increase cortisol levels in the body, making sleep less restful. During sleep, anxious thoughts and feelings keep people awake and disrupt the transition between wakefulness and sleep. Hypnic jerks in children are caused by the development of the human nervous system. These uncontrollable movements of the body begin as early as the fetal stage. While these movements are usually harmless, they may call for medical attention. Multiple contractions in muscles may signal a nervous system disorder or epilepsy.
How can you help a child who experiences hypnic jerks?
Hypnic jerks are typically associated with a sensory experience, such as falling. Symptoms may be accompanied by visual, auditory, or tactile sensations. Some patients also have hallucinations relating to sleep. The jerks can be quite distressing, causing them to avoid sleep less. If they are frequent, the twitches should be treated immediately. Two more ways to treat hypnic jerks is to develop a consistent nighttime routine and to sleep in a proper sleeping position. Try to stay away from screens and bright lights prior to bed.
How can you prevent hypnic jerks from happening?
To avoid having hypnic jerks while sleeping, you should try to limit your intake of caffeine, especially caffeine near bedtime. If possible, stay away from alcohol and other stimulants before going to bed. Both can make you sleepless and make it difficult to relax. By avoiding these, you will be able to enjoy a restful sleep without the risk of a hypnic jerk. If you are worried about hypnic jerks at night, try to journal about it. By writing about it, you can identify which aspects of the situation cause you to worry, which in turn will help you overcome anxiety. Also, try to avoid situations that trigger these jerks. For instance, try to avoid situations where you feel anxious and worry.
Conclusion
Lifestyle changes can help you avoid hypnic jerks. Exercise early in the day can reduce stress and lower the heart rate. Late-day exercises should be moderate. Deep breathing exercises are beneficial to slow the heart rate and prevent twitching during sleep.
