🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 50 (from laksa051)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa050.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical, ml_categories_json AS ml_categories_json, ml_types_json AS ml_types_json, ml_intent_types_json AS ml_intent_types_json, meta_language AS meta_language, attrs_author AS attrs_author, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(attrs_publish_time), 0) AS attrs_publish_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(attrs_original_publish_time), 0) AS attrs_original_publish_time, ifNull(attrs_is_republished, 0) AS attrs_is_republished, ifNull(attrs_nr_words, 0) AS attrs_nr_words, ifNull(attrs_boilerpipe_nr_words, 0) AS attrs_boilerpipe_nr_words, ifNull(body_ext_links_number, 0) AS body_ext_links_number, ifNull(body_int_links_number, 0) AS body_int_links_number, ifNull(meta_nofollow, 0) AS meta_nofollow, ifNull(meta_noarchive, 0) AS meta_noarchive, ifNull(props_was_rendered, 0) AS props_was_rendered, ifNull(src_redirect, \'\') AS src_redirect, ifNull(download_time_msec, 0) AS download_time_msec, ifNull(download_ttfb_msec, 0) AS download_ttfb_msec, ifNull(download_size, 0) AS download_size FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-sleep-myoclonus-3014807\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-sleep-myoclonus-3014807\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/what-is-sleep-myoclonus-3014807","crawl_time":1776313022,"first_indexed_time":1525896395,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,verywellhealth!www,\/what-is-sleep-myoclonus-3014807 s443","src_root_hash":"5681562863987870850","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"What Is Sleep Myoclonus and Should You Be Concerned?","meta_descriptions":["Sleep myoclonus involves sudden, involuntary muscle movements during sleep. Learn its symptoms, causes, and when it may require treatment."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Key Takeaways\nSleep myoclonus is a normal, brief twitch or jerk that happens when you are falling asleep or sleeping. \nMedical treatment is only necessary if myoclonus disrupts sleep or daily life.\nSleep myoclonus describes brief, involuntary muscle twitching or jerking that typically happens as you're drifting off to sleep.\nIt's more common in childhood but can linger through adulthood. Most of the time, sleep myoclonus is perfectly normal and nothing to worry about, but it may require medical attention if it disrupts your sleep or quality of life.\nVerywell \/ Emily Roberts\nHow to Recognize Sleep Myoclonus\nSleep myoclonus symptoms, which are easy to notice, include twitching, jerking, shaking, spasms, or muscle contractions. These may happen once or multiple times, either as a single event or throughout the night, with or without a pattern.\nCommon characteristics of these symptoms are that they are:\nBrief\nInvoluntary\nLocalized to one part of the body or widespread\nShock-like\nSudden\nVariable in intensity and frequency\nSleep myoclonus generally happens during the early stages of sleep, often as you're falling asleep. External stimuli like noise, movement, or light can sometimes trigger it.\nWhy Does Sleep Myoclonus Happen? \nSome known causes of sleep myoclonus are more likely to affect certain age groups. For instance,\nParkinson's\ndisease, which typically appears after age 60, can be a cause.\nThe exact cause of sleep myoclonus remains unclear, but researchers propose a few theories. A main theory involves sleep atonia, a natural process where your muscles are paralyzed as you enter deeper sleep stages.\nDuring sleep atonia, movement signals from the brain relax. Occasionally, this transition is not smooth, leading to electrical signals that cause muscle spasms.\nAdults\nSome types of myoclonus, such as sleep myoclonus and hiccups, occur in all age groups. Other forms result from conditions that mainly affect adults, or from medications more commonly used by them.\nIn adults, myoclonus may be triggered by:\nMedications:\nSome drugs, like opiates, antidepressants, antipsychotics, antiseizure medications (ASMs), and antibiotics, may cause myoclonus as a side effect.\nStroke:\nAfter a stroke that damages a nerve pathway in the brain, myoclonus can develop.\nNeurological disease:\nConditions such as\nmultiple sclerosis\n, Parkinson's disease, dementia with Lewy bodies, Alzheimer's disease,\nceliac disease\n, and epilepsy can cause myoclonus.\nTrauma:\nInjuries to the brain, spinal cord, or nervous system that affect nerve pathways can trigger myoclonus.\nMetabolic disorders:\nConditions like liver or kidney disease may lead to myoclonus.\nInfection:\nNervous system infections, including herpes simplex virus and\nLyme disease\n, can cause myoclonus.\nCancer:\nMyoclonus is linked to cancers like leukemia, lymphoma, neuroblastoma, and lung, ovarian, or breast cancers.\nUnknown causes\n: This type is often called essential myoclonus.\nWhen doctors identify the underlying issue, they can better determine if treatment is needed.\nWhat Is Restless Leg Syndrome?\nRestless leg syndrome is a disorder that causes a person to experience a strong, uncontrolled urge to move their legs. This feeling can go away soon afterward or immediately upon experiencing the urge, but there are minor differences in how it feels between people. It has been observed to occur with sleep myoclonus.\nChildren\nIn infants, benign (non-threatening) sleep myoclonus appears as repetitive twitches in the arms, legs, or torso during sleep.\nAlthough research on infant myoclonus is limited, it is generally considered harmless. Occasionally, a healthcare provider may perform an electroencephalography (EEG) test to distinguish it from epilepsy.\nOther causes of myoclonus in children can include:\nFever or infection:\nAbrupt episodes of myoclonus may occur after a child has a fever or infection, typically resolving on their own.\nTumor:\nNeoblastoma is the most common type of malignant tumor in children seven years and younger. Approximately 2% to 3% of children with neoblastoma develop\nopsoclonus–myoclonus\nsyndrome (OMS), which causes loss of coordination, tremors (often in the hands), and an inability to walk or sit.\nTrauma:\nA brain or spinal cord injury can also trigger myoclonus in children if it damages the nervous system. Brief episodes of myoclonus may begin immediately after the injury and often resolve abruptly on their own.\nWhat Are the Different Types of Myoclonus?\nThere are two types of myoclonus: positive and negative myoclonus. Positive myoclonus happens when muscles abruptly contract. Negative myoclonus happens when muscles that are contracting suddenly stop.\nThere are numerous forms of myoclonus, but some of them aren't sleep myoclonus:\nAction myoclonus\nis triggered by a movement you make or an intention to move, typically affecting the arms, legs, and face. It can be caused by brain damage due to a lack of oxygen, or happen as a symptom of another underlying neurological condition.\nCortical myoclonus\n, which\nis one of the most common forms of myoclonus, typically affects the upper limbs and face. Cortical myoclonus may be positive, negative, or both at the same time.\nEpileptic myoclonus\nis common among people who live with epilepsy. It can happen as one component of a seizure, or on its own in the absence of a seizure. It typically happens in children with epilepsy.\nEssential myoclonus\nis myoclonus which may be the primary symptom of an underlying illness, the only symptom of an underlying illness, or idiopathic (unrelated to illness). It tends to be chronic.\nMyoclonus-renal failure syndrome\nis an extremely rare form of myoclonic epilepsy. Its symptoms may begin as early as age nine and progressively worsen, eventually leading to end-stage kidney failure.\nPalatal myoclonus\nis slow, rhythmic muscle contractions that can happen while asleep or awake, typically affecting the eyes, face, tongue, larynx (voice box), and the intercostal muscles between the ribs.\nPeripheral myoclonus\nrhythmic or sporadic jerking movements caused by a nerve injury or a lesion (i.e., a lipoma or other benign tumor) in a peripheral nerve, root nerves, or plexus nerves.\nPropriospinal myoclonus\noriginates in the spine and may involve the neck, waist, knees, and hips, but not the face. It typically occurs in a lying down position, sometimes during the transition between wakefulness and sleep. It is more common in middle-aged men, and may be related to spinal, trauma, tumor, or infection.\nStartle syndrome\nis abrupt, rapid body jerking that happens when you are surprised by a sudden stimulus, such as a loud noise. It is normal and persists throughout life.\nSymptomatic myoclonus\nis spawned by a variety of underlying medical conditions, including Parkinson's, infection, kidney failure, hyperthyroidism, and even vitamin E deficiency.\nHow It's Diagnosed\nTo find the cause of myoclonus, your healthcare provider will first consider:\nYour age\nMedications you’re taking\nRecent falls, car accidents, or other injuries\nFamily history\nYour provider will ask you about the tremors or spasms you experience. They may ask which body part seems to be affected, how frequently the myoclonus occurs, and how long the episodes seem to last. They may also ask if you are experiencing any other new or unusual symptoms.\nDepending on this information, your provider may recommend one or more of the following tests:\nElectroencephalogram (EEG)\n:\nSmall discs (electrodes) are placed on your scalp to track your brainwaves for patterns that can reveal where the myoclonus starts.\nElectromyography (EMG)\n:\nTiny needles through your skin and into your muscles to check the health of your muscles and the nerves that control them.\nMagnetic resonance imaging (MRI)\n:\nAn MRI machine takes detailed images of your organs and tissues using magnetic fields and radio waves. MRIs do not involve radiation.\nBlood test:\nYour provider may order a blood test to check for signs of increased immune system activity, which can point to infection and other illnesses.\nWhat Are the Treatment Options?\nSleep myoclonus is not considered serious or in need of treatment unless it interferes with sleep and\/or someone's quality of life.\nIf it does, the condition may be treated with Xenazine (tetrabenazine), a drug often used to treat movement disorders such as\nHuntington’s disease\n.\nIn most cases, however, treatment is not necessary if sleep is relatively normal. Sleep myoclonus is widely referred to as a \"benign\" condition, meaning that it has no short- or long-term effects on the health or well-being of the affected individual.\nWhen to See a Healthcare Provider\nThe occasional muscle jerk as you're drifting off to sleep is nothing to be concerned about. However, if the myoclonus is disrupting your sleep or happening while you are awake, see your healthcare provider for an evaluation.\nYou should also see a healthcare provider if:\nThe myoclonus happens persistently or frequently or is increasing in frequency\nThe myoclonus interferes with eating, speaking, walking, or other activities\nYou are experiencing a new type of myoclonus\nYou have any other new or unusual symptoms, including\nsigns of infection\nor\nsigns of epilepsy\nCall 911 or go to the nearest urgent care if you if you experience any signs of epilepsy, including:\nChanges in consciousness\nWeakness\nVisual auras, such as flashes of light or tunnel vision\nAuditory (hearing) auras, such as ringing, buzzing, or distorted sounds\nSomatosensory auras, like tingling or a feeling of moving despite being still\nA metallic taste in your mouth\nA sudden sense of impending doom\n14 Sources\nVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our\neditorial process\nto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.\nNational Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.\nMyoclonus\n.\nNational Institute on Aging.\nParkinson's disease: Causes, symptoms, and treatments\n.\nSQ Online.\nHypnic jerks: The mysterious sensation of falling and spazzing awake\n.\nChanddarana M, Saraf U, Divya KP, Krishnan S, Kishore A.\nMyoclonus- a review\n.\nAnn Indian Acad Neurol\n. 2021 May;24(3):327-338. doi:10.4103\/aian.AIAN_1180_20\nJanssen S, Bloem B, van de Warrenburg B.\nThe clinical heterogeneity of of drug-induced myoclonus: an illustrated review\n.\nJ Neurol\n. 2017;264(8):1559-1566. doi:10.1007\/s00415-016-8357-z\nBaylor Medicine.\nMyoclonus\n.\nNichols J, Lee B, Chung K.\nA case of paraneoplastic myoclonus attributed to non-small cell lung cancer\n.\nTremor Other Hyperkinet Mov (NY)\n. 2020 Jun;10(1):7. doi:10.5334\/tohm.42\nMount Sinai.\nRestless legs syndrome and related disorders\n.\nSleep Foundation.\nBenign neonatal sleep myoclonus\n.\nDelucchi V, Pavlidis E, Piccolo B, Pisani F.\nFebrile and postinfectious myoclonus: Case reports and review of the literature\n.\nNeuropediatrics\n. 2015 Geb;46(1):26-32. doi:10.1055\/s-0034-1395347\nXie S, Bai C, Li K, Dong K, Yao W.\nComparison of mediastinal and non-mediastinal neuroblastoma and ganglioneuroblastoma associated with opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome: a systematic review and meta analysis\n.\nTransl Cancer Res\n. 2022 Oct;11(10):3741-3753. doi:10.21037\/tcr-22-1120\nFacini C, Barsacchi M, Piccolo B, Turco E, Pisani F.\nEarly onset of propriospinal-like myoclonus in a child following a vertebral fracture\n.\nNeurology\n. 2016 Aug;87(9):1-2. doi:10.1212\/WNL.0000000000003053\nBhowmick S, Lang A.\nMovement disorders and renal diseases\n.\nMove Dis\n. 2020 Oct;7(7):763-779. doi:10.1002\/mdc3.13005\nJohns Hopkins Medicine.\nMagnetic resonance imaging (MRI)\n.\nBy\nBrandon Peters, MD\nDr. Peters is a board-certified neurologist and sleep medicine specialist and is a fellow of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.\nWas this page helpful?\nThanks for your feedback!\nWhat is your feedback?","attrs_markdown":"[Skip to content](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/what-is-sleep-myoclonus-3014807#skip-to-content)\n\nMenu\n\n- [Health A-Z](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/health-a-z-4014770)\n  - [Colorectal Cancer](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/colon-cancer-4014742)\n  - [Arthritis](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/arthritis-overview-4582013)\n  - [Type 2 Diabetes](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/type-2-diabetes-overview-4581874)\n  - [Digestive Health](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/digestive-health-4141198)\n  - [Multiple Sclerosis](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/multiple-sclerosis-overview-4581925)\n  - [Skin Health](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/skin-health-4014649)\n  - [View All](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/health-a-z-4014770)\n- [Prevention & Treatment](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/prevention-and-treatment-4158390)\n  - [Diet & Nutrition](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/nutrition-diet-and-healthy-eating-5202128)\n  - [First Aid](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/first-aid-4014723)\n  - [Surgery](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/surgery-overview-4581881)\n- [Health Care](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/health-care-4014769)\n  - [Health Insurance](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/health-insurance-overview-4581967)\n  - [Public Health](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/public-health-4158386)\n  - [Patient Rights](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/patient-rights-4014673)\n  - [Disability](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/disability-4014735)\n  - [Caregivers & Loved Ones](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/for-caregivers-and-loved-ones-4014749)\n  - [End of Life Concerns](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/end-of-life-overview-4581973)\n  - [View All](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/health-care-4014769)\n- [News](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/news-4846412)\n  - [Health News](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/health-news-4844929)\n  - [Studies & Guidelines](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/studies-and-guidelines-11869035)\n- Tools & Resources\n  - [Thyroid Test Analyzer](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thyroid-test-analyzer-8647820)\n  - [Doctor Discussion Guides](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/doctor-discussion-guides-4179090)\n  - [Hemoglobin A1c Test Analyzer](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/a1c-test-analyzer-8647852)\n  - [Lipid Test Analyzer](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/lipid-test-analyzer-8647856)\n  - [Complete Blood Count (CBC) Analyzer](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/complete-blood-count-cbc-analyzer-8647862)\n- [About Us](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/about-us-5180305)\n  - [Editorial Process](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/verywell-editorial-process-4777042)\n  - [Meet Our Medical Expert Board](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/meet-our-medical-expert-board-11762003)\n\nSearch\n\n- [Health A-Z](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/health-a-z-4014770)\n  - [Colorectal Cancer](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/colon-cancer-4014742)\n  - [Arthritis](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/arthritis-overview-4582013)\n  - [Type 2 Diabetes](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/type-2-diabetes-overview-4581874)\n  - [Digestive Health](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/digestive-health-4141198)\n  - [Multiple Sclerosis](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/multiple-sclerosis-overview-4581925)\n  - [Skin Health](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/skin-health-4014649)\n  - [View All](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/health-a-z-4014770)\n- [Prevention & Treatment](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/prevention-and-treatment-4158390)\n  - [Diet & Nutrition](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/nutrition-diet-and-healthy-eating-5202128)\n  - [First Aid](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/first-aid-4014723)\n  - [Surgery](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/surgery-overview-4581881)\n  - [View All](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/prevention-and-treatment-4158390)\n- [Health Care](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/health-care-4014769)\n  - [Health Insurance](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/health-insurance-overview-4581967)\n  - [Public Health](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/public-health-4158386)\n  - [Patient Rights](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/patient-rights-4014673)\n  - [Disability](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/disability-4014735)\n  - [Caregivers & Loved Ones](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/for-caregivers-and-loved-ones-4014749)\n  - [End of Life Concerns](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/end-of-life-overview-4581973)\n  - [View All](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/health-care-4014769)\n- [News](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/news-4846412)\n  - [Health News](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/health-news-4844929)\n  - [Studies & Guidelines](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/studies-and-guidelines-11869035)\n  - [View All](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/news-4846412)\n\n[More in Sleep Disorders](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/sleep-disorders-4014648)\n\n- [Insomnia & More Disorders](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/insomnia-and-more-sleep-disorders-4013520)\n- [Symptoms](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/sleep-disorder-symptoms-4158398)\n- [Causes & Risk Factors](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/sleep-disorder-causes-4014585)\n- [Diagnosis](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/sleep-disorder-diagnosis-4014299)\n- [Treatment](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/sleep-disorder-treatment-4013401)\n- [Living With](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/sleep-disorders-living-with-4013358)\n- [Sleep Apnea](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/sleep-apnea-4158397)\n- [Healthy Sleep Habits](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/healthy-sleep-habits-4013619)\n\n[View More](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/sleep-disorders-4014648)\n\nTools & Resources\n\n- [Thyroid Test Analyzer](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thyroid-test-analyzer-8647820)\n- [Doctor Discussion Guides](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/doctor-discussion-guides-4179090)\n- [Hemoglobin A1c Test Analyzer](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/a1c-test-analyzer-8647852)\n- [Lipid Test Analyzer](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/lipid-test-analyzer-8647856)\n- [Complete Blood Count (CBC) Analyzer](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/complete-blood-count-cbc-analyzer-8647862)\n\n- [About Us](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/about-us-5180305)\n- [Editorial Process](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/verywell-editorial-process-4777042)\n- [Medical Review Board](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/meet-our-medical-expert-board-11762003)\n\nVerywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.\n\nⒸ 2026 People Inc. — All rights reserved\n\n# What Is Sleep Myoclonus and Should You Be Concerned?\nBy [Brandon Peters, MD](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/brandon-peters-md-3014640)\n\nUpdated on March 15, 2026\n\nMedically reviewed by  [Jonathan B. Jassey, DO](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/jonathan-b-jassey-do-4775576)\n\nTable of Contents\n\nView All\n\nTable of Contents\n\n- [Symptoms](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/what-is-sleep-myoclonus-3014807#toc-how-to-recognize-sleep-myoclonus)\n- [Causes](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/what-is-sleep-myoclonus-3014807#toc-why-does-sleep-myoclonus-happen)\n- [Types](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/what-is-sleep-myoclonus-3014807#toc-what-are-the-different-types-of-myoclonus)\n- [Diagnosis](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/what-is-sleep-myoclonus-3014807#toc-how-its-diagnosed)\n- [Treatment](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/what-is-sleep-myoclonus-3014807#toc-what-are-the-treatment-options)\n- [When to See a Healthcare Provider](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/what-is-sleep-myoclonus-3014807#toc-when-to-see-a-healthcare-provider)\n\n### Key Takeaways\n- Sleep myoclonus is a normal, brief twitch or jerk that happens when you are falling asleep or sleeping.\n- Medical treatment is only necessary if myoclonus disrupts sleep or daily life.\n\nSleep myoclonus describes brief, involuntary muscle twitching or jerking that typically happens as you're drifting off to sleep. It's more common in childhood but can linger through adulthood. Most of the time, sleep myoclonus is perfectly normal and nothing to worry about, but it may require medical attention if it disrupts your sleep or quality of life.\n\n![Causes of Sleep Myoclonus]()\n\n![Causes of Sleep Myoclonus](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/_Vv-S6tFx4kjXs85U0Gl_8SrHZ8=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/what-is-sleep-myoclonus-3014807_final-7ed9480f6cd84571bd9019a52c2b0951.png)\n\nVerywell \/ Emily Roberts\n## How to Recognize Sleep Myoclonus\nSleep myoclonus symptoms, which are easy to notice, include twitching, jerking, shaking, spasms, or muscle contractions. These may happen once or multiple times, either as a single event or throughout the night, with or without a pattern.  \n  \nCommon characteristics of these symptoms are that they are:\n\n- Brief\n- Involuntary\n- Localized to one part of the body or widespread\n- Shock-like\n- Sudden\n- Variable in intensity and frequency\n\nSleep myoclonus generally happens during the early stages of sleep, often as you're falling asleep. External stimuli like noise, movement, or light can sometimes trigger it.\n\n## Why Does Sleep Myoclonus Happen?\nSome known causes of sleep myoclonus are more likely to affect certain age groups. For instance, [Parkinson's](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/parkinsons-disease-facts-5324573) disease, which typically appears after age 60, can be a cause.\n\nThe exact cause of sleep myoclonus remains unclear, but researchers propose a few theories. A main theory involves sleep atonia, a natural process where your muscles are paralyzed as you enter deeper sleep stages.\n\nDuring sleep atonia, movement signals from the brain relax. Occasionally, this transition is not smooth, leading to electrical signals that cause muscle spasms.\n\n### Adults\nSome types of myoclonus, such as sleep myoclonus and hiccups, occur in all age groups. Other forms result from conditions that mainly affect adults, or from medications more commonly used by them.\n\nIn adults, myoclonus may be triggered by:\n\n- **Medications:** Some drugs, like opiates, antidepressants, antipsychotics, antiseizure medications (ASMs), and antibiotics, may cause myoclonus as a side effect.\n- **Stroke:** After a stroke that damages a nerve pathway in the brain, myoclonus can develop.\n- **Neurological disease:** Conditions such as [multiple sclerosis](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/multiple-sclerosis-overview-4581925), Parkinson's disease, dementia with Lewy bodies, Alzheimer's disease, [celiac disease](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/celiac-disease-symptoms-4014337), and epilepsy can cause myoclonus.\n- **Trauma:** Injuries to the brain, spinal cord, or nervous system that affect nerve pathways can trigger myoclonus.\n- **Metabolic disorders:** Conditions like liver or kidney disease may lead to myoclonus.\n- **Infection:** Nervous system infections, including herpes simplex virus and [Lyme disease](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/lyme-disease-7151644), can cause myoclonus.\n- **Cancer:** Myoclonus is linked to cancers like leukemia, lymphoma, neuroblastoma, and lung, ovarian, or breast cancers.\n- **Unknown causes**: This type is often called essential myoclonus.\n\nWhen doctors identify the underlying issue, they can better determine if treatment is needed.\n\n### What Is Restless Leg Syndrome?\nRestless leg syndrome is a disorder that causes a person to experience a strong, uncontrolled urge to move their legs. This feeling can go away soon afterward or immediately upon experiencing the urge, but there are minor differences in how it feels between people. It has been observed to occur with sleep myoclonus.\n### Children\nIn infants, benign (non-threatening) sleep myoclonus appears as repetitive twitches in the arms, legs, or torso during sleep.\n\nAlthough research on infant myoclonus is limited, it is generally considered harmless. Occasionally, a healthcare provider may perform an electroencephalography (EEG) test to distinguish it from epilepsy.\n\nOther causes of myoclonus in children can include:\n\n- **Fever or infection:** Abrupt episodes of myoclonus may occur after a child has a fever or infection, typically resolving on their own.\n- **Tumor:** Neoblastoma is the most common type of malignant tumor in children seven years and younger. Approximately 2% to 3% of children with neoblastoma develop opsoclonus–myoclonus syndrome (OMS), which causes loss of coordination, tremors (often in the hands), and an inability to walk or sit.\n- **Trauma:** A brain or spinal cord injury can also trigger myoclonus in children if it damages the nervous system. Brief episodes of myoclonus may begin immediately after the injury and often resolve abruptly on their own.\n## What Are the Different Types of Myoclonus?\nThere are two types of myoclonus: positive and negative myoclonus. Positive myoclonus happens when muscles abruptly contract. Negative myoclonus happens when muscles that are contracting suddenly stop.\n\nThere are numerous forms of myoclonus, but some of them aren't sleep myoclonus:\n\n- **Action myoclonus** is triggered by a movement you make or an intention to move, typically affecting the arms, legs, and face. It can be caused by brain damage due to a lack of oxygen, or happen as a symptom of another underlying neurological condition.\n- **Cortical myoclonus**, whichis one of the most common forms of myoclonus, typically affects the upper limbs and face. Cortical myoclonus may be positive, negative, or both at the same time.\n- **Epileptic myoclonus** is common among people who live with epilepsy. It can happen as one component of a seizure, or on its own in the absence of a seizure. It typically happens in children with epilepsy.\n- **Essential myoclonus** is myoclonus which may be the primary symptom of an underlying illness, the only symptom of an underlying illness, or idiopathic (unrelated to illness). It tends to be chronic.\n- **Myoclonus-renal failure syndrome** is an extremely rare form of myoclonic epilepsy. Its symptoms may begin as early as age nine and progressively worsen, eventually leading to end-stage kidney failure.\n- **Palatal myoclonus** is slow, rhythmic muscle contractions that can happen while asleep or awake, typically affecting the eyes, face, tongue, larynx (voice box), and the intercostal muscles between the ribs.\n- **Peripheral myoclonus** rhythmic or sporadic jerking movements caused by a nerve injury or a lesion (i.e., a lipoma or other benign tumor) in a peripheral nerve, root nerves, or plexus nerves.\n- **Propriospinal myoclonus** originates in the spine and may involve the neck, waist, knees, and hips, but not the face. It typically occurs in a lying down position, sometimes during the transition between wakefulness and sleep. It is more common in middle-aged men, and may be related to spinal, trauma, tumor, or infection.\n- **Startle syndrome** is abrupt, rapid body jerking that happens when you are surprised by a sudden stimulus, such as a loud noise. It is normal and persists throughout life.\n- **Symptomatic myoclonus** is spawned by a variety of underlying medical conditions, including Parkinson's, infection, kidney failure, hyperthyroidism, and even vitamin E deficiency.\n## How It's Diagnosed\nTo find the cause of myoclonus, your healthcare provider will first consider:\n\n- Your age\n- Medications you’re taking\n- Recent falls, car accidents, or other injuries\n- Family history\n\nYour provider will ask you about the tremors or spasms you experience. They may ask which body part seems to be affected, how frequently the myoclonus occurs, and how long the episodes seem to last. They may also ask if you are experiencing any other new or unusual symptoms.\n\nDepending on this information, your provider may recommend one or more of the following tests:\n\n- [**Electroencephalogram (EEG)**](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/what-is-an-eeg-test-and-what-is-it-used-for-3014879)**:** Small discs (electrodes) are placed on your scalp to track your brainwaves for patterns that can reveal where the myoclonus starts.\n- [**Electromyography (EMG)**](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/electromyography-7152418)**:** Tiny needles through your skin and into your muscles to check the health of your muscles and the nerves that control them.\n- [**Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)**](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/what-is-an-mri-and-what-does-it-do-3157069)**:** An MRI machine takes detailed images of your organs and tissues using magnetic fields and radio waves. MRIs do not involve radiation.\n- **Blood test:** Your provider may order a blood test to check for signs of increased immune system activity, which can point to infection and other illnesses.\n## What Are the Treatment Options?\nSleep myoclonus is not considered serious or in need of treatment unless it interferes with sleep and\/or someone's quality of life.\n\nIf it does, the condition may be treated with Xenazine (tetrabenazine), a drug often used to treat movement disorders such as [Huntington’s disease](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/huntingtons-disease-11697734).\n\nIn most cases, however, treatment is not necessary if sleep is relatively normal. Sleep myoclonus is widely referred to as a \"benign\" condition, meaning that it has no short- or long-term effects on the health or well-being of the affected individual.\n\n## When to See a Healthcare Provider\nThe occasional muscle jerk as you're drifting off to sleep is nothing to be concerned about. However, if the myoclonus is disrupting your sleep or happening while you are awake, see your healthcare provider for an evaluation.\n\nYou should also see a healthcare provider if:\n\n- The myoclonus happens persistently or frequently or is increasing in frequency\n- The myoclonus interferes with eating, speaking, walking, or other activities\n- You are experiencing a new type of myoclonus\n- You have any other new or unusual symptoms, including [signs of infection](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/infection-symptoms-5185799) or [signs of epilepsy](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/risks-and-complications-of-seizures-4685790)\n\nCall 911 or go to the nearest urgent care if you if you experience any signs of epilepsy, including:\n\n- Changes in consciousness\n- Weakness\n- Visual auras, such as flashes of light or tunnel vision\n- Auditory (hearing) auras, such as ringing, buzzing, or distorted sounds\n- Somatosensory auras, like tingling or a feeling of moving despite being still\n- A metallic taste in your mouth\n- A sudden sense of impending doom\n\nRead more:\n\n- [Health A-Z](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/health-a-z-4014770)\n- [Sleep Disorders](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/sleep-disorders-4014648)\n- [Insomnia & More Disorders](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/insomnia-and-more-sleep-disorders-4013520)\n\n14 Sources\n\nVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our [editorial process](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/verywell-editorial-process-4777042) to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.\n\n1. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. [Myoclonus](https:\/\/www.ninds.nih.gov\/health-information\/disorders\/myoclonus).\n2. National Institute on Aging. [Parkinson's disease: Causes, symptoms, and treatments](https:\/\/www.nia.nih.gov\/health\/parkinsons-disease).\n3. SQ Online. [Hypnic jerks: The mysterious sensation of falling and spazzing awake](https:\/\/sqonline.ucsd.edu\/2021\/05\/hypnic-jerks-the-mysterious-sensation-of-falling-and-spazzing-awake\/).\n4. Chanddarana M, Saraf U, Divya KP, Krishnan S, Kishore A. [Myoclonus- a review](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.4103%2Faian.AIAN_1180_20). *Ann Indian Acad Neurol*. 2021 May;24(3):327-338. doi:10.4103\/aian.AIAN\\_1180\\_20\n5. Janssen S, Bloem B, van de Warrenburg B. [The clinical heterogeneity of of drug-induced myoclonus: an illustrated review](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1007%2Fs00415-016-8357-z). *J Neurol*. 2017;264(8):1559-1566. doi:10.1007\/s00415-016-8357-z\n6. Baylor Medicine. [Myoclonus](https:\/\/www.bcm.edu\/healthcare\/specialties\/neurology\/parkinsons-disease-and-movement-disorders\/myoclonus).\n7. Nichols J, Lee B, Chung K. [A case of paraneoplastic myoclonus attributed to non-small cell lung cancer](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5334%2Ftohm.42). *Tremor Other Hyperkinet Mov (NY)*. 2020 Jun;10(1):7. doi:10.5334\/tohm.42\n8. Mount Sinai. [Restless legs syndrome and related disorders](https:\/\/www.mountsinai.org\/health-library\/report\/restless-legs-syndrome-and-related-disorders).\n9. Sleep Foundation. [Benign neonatal sleep myoclonus](https:\/\/www.sleepfoundation.org\/baby-sleep\/benign-neonatal-sleep-myoclonus).\n10. Delucchi V, Pavlidis E, Piccolo B, Pisani F. [Febrile and postinfectious myoclonus: Case reports and review of the literature](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1055\/s-0034-1395347). *Neuropediatrics*. 2015 Geb;46(1):26-32. doi:10.1055\/s-0034-1395347\n11. Xie S, Bai C, Li K, Dong K, Yao W. [Comparison of mediastinal and non-mediastinal neuroblastoma and ganglioneuroblastoma associated with opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome: a systematic review and meta analysis](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.21037%2Ftcr-22-1120). *Transl Cancer Res*. 2022 Oct;11(10):3741-3753. doi:10.21037\/tcr-22-1120\n12. Facini C, Barsacchi M, Piccolo B, Turco E, Pisani F. [Early onset of propriospinal-like myoclonus in a child following a vertebral fracture](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1212\/WNL.0000000000003053). *Neurology*. 2016 Aug;87(9):1-2. doi:10.1212\/WNL.0000000000003053\n13. Bhowmick S, Lang A. [Movement disorders and renal diseases](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1002\/mdc3.13005). *Move Dis*. 2020 Oct;7(7):763-779. doi:10.1002\/mdc3.13005\n14. Johns Hopkins Medicine. [Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)](https:\/\/www.hopkinsmedicine.org\/health\/treatment-tests-and-therapies\/magnetic-resonance-imaging-mri).\n\n![Brandon Peters, M.D.]()\n\n![Brandon Peters, M.D.](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/BbtKTL7wVNFD-4Y2KIj4azA0HpE=\/144x144\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/BrandonPetersMD_1000-5143e542c3084368b1220c4b86ede01c.png)\n\nBy [Brandon Peters, MD](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/brandon-peters-md-3014640)   \n Dr. Peters is a board-certified neurologist and sleep medicine specialist and is a fellow of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.\n\n[See Our Editorial Process](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/verywell-editorial-process-4777042)\n\n[Meet Our Medical Expert Board](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/meet-our-medical-expert-board-11762003)\n\nShare Feedback\n\nWas this page helpful?\n\nThanks for your feedback\\!\n\nWhat is your feedback?\n\nHelpful\n\nReport an Error\n\nOther\n\nRelated Articles\n\n[![Toddler sleeping on pillow may wake from a confusional arousal and have sleep drunkenness]() ![Toddler sleeping on pillow may wake from a confusional arousal and have sleep drunkenness](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/ytfIe0LcJBmy2GMjkF-3efjTcHY=\/400x250\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/toddler-sleeping-on-pillow-810485910-5a1f25cc842b17001954a872.jpg) Understanding Confusional Arousals or Sleep Drunkenness](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/what-are-confusional-arousals-3014786)\n\n[![Man lying awake in bed due to symptoms of insomnia]() ![Man lying awake in bed due to symptoms of insomnia](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/-AIBF6UMo_a6cbPK3sHumcafznY=\/400x250\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/man-lying-awake-in-bed-522942240-59cc01ba22fa3a0011a509d1.jpg) Insomnia: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/what-is-insomnia-the-features-symptoms-and-causes-3014805)\n\n[![Bottles and pills of Ambien and Lunesta arranged in a Cambridge, Massachusetts pharmacy]() ![Bottles and pills of Ambien and Lunesta arranged in a Cambridge, Massachusetts pharmacy](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/xwroXWBauzKD6hDKXImH0bGCmPg=\/400x250\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/GettyImages-94818220-6667df5eb7a1423fa096894511400154.jpg) Lunesta vs. Ambien: How Do They Compare?](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/lunesta-vs-ambien-8675475)\n\n[![A picture of a mom kissing her child in bed]() ![A picture of a mom kissing her child in bed](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/WIk8LQaFROzOdkM7lN7Y95odMh4=\/400x250\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/get-kids-to-go-to-sleep-56a8fd385f9b58b7d0f70c7b.jpg) Sleep-Related Rhythmic Movement Disorder (RMD)](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/what-is-sleep-related-rhythmic-movement-disorder-3014802)\n\n[![Sad depressed woman suffering from insomnia, she is sitting in bed and touching her forehead, sleep disorder and stress concept - stock photo]() ![Sad depressed woman suffering from insomnia, she is sitting in bed and touching her forehead, sleep disorder and stress concept - stock photo](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/0qJxmnp6QWkQwZySiVNkQlqB-LM=\/400x250\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/GettyImages-901220642-d85a655b0775411194dd8ef0b31ee3c8.jpg) Why Am I Always Tired?](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/reasons-why-you-feel-sleepy-3014818)\n\n[![An illustration about sleep paralysis hallucination including a dark outline with several eyes]() ![An illustration about sleep paralysis hallucination including a dark outline with several eyes](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/k4B1q_R67_esPE-PZyu0xbnweiM=\/400x250\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/VWH-EllenLindner-SymptomsofSleepParalysis-Recirc-a9705d657548477388cd3f860c889239.jpg) Understanding Sleep Paralysis Hallucinations and How to Stop Them](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/symptoms-of-sleep-paralysis-3014781)\n\n[![Man sleeping in bed]() ![Man sleeping in bed](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/oQJjluN_TkQ0eajuwOHtnF1THUs=\/400x250\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/107070067_HighRes-569feda63df78cafda9f1d51.jpg) 9 Best Natural Sleep Aids](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/natural-ways-to-help-you-sleep-88230)\n\n[![Woman sweating in bed]() ![Woman sweating in bed](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/C3p7FZKgcYgmiuDORmdpI1OwvXw=\/400x250\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/GettyImages-166678773-5a0077d1da271500377ac096.jpg) Why Do I Sweat in My Sleep?](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/why-do-we-get-sweaty-in-sleep-3014752)\n\n[![Man sleeping and snoring, overhead view]() ![Man sleeping and snoring, overhead view](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/PZYujizRD4sL6z2kJ2GCaafCgAg=\/400x250\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/GettyImages-91531328-ce0d824984c84a9c96c5e4380a784850.jpg) What Happens If You Don’t Use Your CPAP Machine?](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/what-happens-if-i-dont-use-cpap-one-night-3015053)\n\n[![A person sitting up in bed at night, looking anxious]() ![A person sitting up in bed at night, looking anxious](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/ehJdP2tJBiGiMlFXof0H_MdtKW0=\/400x250\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/awake-GettyImages-2162090876-c3733aa8a36d4c5d87dec01d7efe8b5e.jpg) Is Paradoxical Insomnia Real? Causes and Treatment](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/paradoxical-insomnia-11706682)\n\n[![Person sitting on a bed wearing pajamas holding their head with a tired expression suggesting fatigue or morning exhaustion]() ![Person sitting on a bed wearing pajamas holding their head with a tired expression suggesting fatigue or morning exhaustion](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/qMgzf0zUvTldnBiII_UhntFAD90=\/400x250\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/VWH-GettyImages-1155604402-f2dae65a23d743259371218b43e4e11d.jpg) 8 Reasons You're Waking Up Groggy After a Full Night of Sleep](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/reasons-waking-up-groggy-11940288)\n\n[![What to expect in overnight sleep study testing includes how to prepare, what happens during the study, and when results are interpreted]() ![What to expect in overnight sleep study testing includes how to prepare, what happens during the study, and when results are interpreted](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/iidc9fsGnoA5qWc00wFWH5xcBNw=\/400x250\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/72818730-56a884b35f9b58b7d0f3074e.JPG) What Is a Sleep Study (Polysomnogram)?](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/what-to-expect-in-a-sleep-study-3015121)\n\n[![A woman in bed unable to sleep]() ![A woman in bed unable to sleep](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/0ytM3qrrV0hfhu4HdmdlxVd6T4Q=\/400x250\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/130897076_10-56a884b23df78cf7729e8396.JPG) Why Do I Wake Up With a Headache?](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/obstructive-sleep-apnea-am-headaches-3014738)\n\n[![Woman yawning and can't wake up in morning because of insomnia - Trazodone]() ![Woman yawning and can't wake up in morning because of insomnia - Trazodone](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/coEmxCX5Ql-CJFMC-_U3j5lQ-4w=\/400x250\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/VWH-GettyImages-1390552603-f64732940f684d98a609e500adcffda5.jpg) Trazodone for Sleep and Insomnia](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/trazodone-for-insomnia-3015244)\n\n[![A person holding a black strip over their mouth in a bright indoor setting]() ![A person holding a black strip over their mouth in a bright indoor setting](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/dUmBbpCSb7eOGL2VFc-_ocbblV8=\/400x250\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/VWH-GettyImages-2209392836-84246ba9d7c041d69551546f0d1f805f.jpg) Does Mouth Taping Help With Snoring?](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/does-mouth-taping-help-with-snoring-11934713)\n\n[![Man sitting on edge of bed]() ![Man sitting on edge of bed](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/quFJv_gGMICRGY1MFQrj7H9vh6c=\/400x250\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/103058329-edit-56a884e13df78cf7729e841a.jpg) Sleep Aids for Insomnia](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/what-to-take-when-you-cant-sleep-3015261)\n\n- [Health A-Z](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/health-a-z-4014770)\n- [Prevention & Treatment](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/prevention-and-treatment-4158390)\n- [Health Care](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/health-care-4014769)\n- [News](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/news-4846412)\n\n- [Meet Our Review Board](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/meet-our-medical-expert-board-11762003)\n- [About Us](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/about-us-5180305)\n- [Editorial Process](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/verywell-editorial-process-4777042)\n- [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/brands-privacy)\n- [In the News](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/in-the-news-4778971)\n- [Advertise](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/advertising)\n- [Terms of Service](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/brands-termsofservice)\n- [Careers](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/careers)\n- [Contact](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/about-us-5180305#toc-contact-us)\n\nFollow Us\n\nVerywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.\n\nⒸ 2026 People Inc. — All rights reserved\n\nVerywell Health is part of the [People Inc.](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/) publishing family.","attrs_readable_markdown":"### Key Takeaways\n- Sleep myoclonus is a normal, brief twitch or jerk that happens when you are falling asleep or sleeping.\n- Medical treatment is only necessary if myoclonus disrupts sleep or daily life.\n\nSleep myoclonus describes brief, involuntary muscle twitching or jerking that typically happens as you're drifting off to sleep. It's more common in childhood but can linger through adulthood. Most of the time, sleep myoclonus is perfectly normal and nothing to worry about, but it may require medical attention if it disrupts your sleep or quality of life.\n\nVerywell \/ Emily Roberts\n\n## How to Recognize Sleep Myoclonus\nSleep myoclonus symptoms, which are easy to notice, include twitching, jerking, shaking, spasms, or muscle contractions. These may happen once or multiple times, either as a single event or throughout the night, with or without a pattern.\n\nCommon characteristics of these symptoms are that they are:\n\n- Brief\n- Involuntary\n- Localized to one part of the body or widespread\n- Shock-like\n- Sudden\n- Variable in intensity and frequency\n\nSleep myoclonus generally happens during the early stages of sleep, often as you're falling asleep. External stimuli like noise, movement, or light can sometimes trigger it.\n\n## Why Does Sleep Myoclonus Happen?\nSome known causes of sleep myoclonus are more likely to affect certain age groups. For instance, [Parkinson's](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/parkinsons-disease-facts-5324573) disease, which typically appears after age 60, can be a cause.\n\nThe exact cause of sleep myoclonus remains unclear, but researchers propose a few theories. A main theory involves sleep atonia, a natural process where your muscles are paralyzed as you enter deeper sleep stages.\n\nDuring sleep atonia, movement signals from the brain relax. Occasionally, this transition is not smooth, leading to electrical signals that cause muscle spasms.\n\n### Adults\nSome types of myoclonus, such as sleep myoclonus and hiccups, occur in all age groups. Other forms result from conditions that mainly affect adults, or from medications more commonly used by them.\n\nIn adults, myoclonus may be triggered by:\n\n- **Medications:** Some drugs, like opiates, antidepressants, antipsychotics, antiseizure medications (ASMs), and antibiotics, may cause myoclonus as a side effect.\n- **Stroke:** After a stroke that damages a nerve pathway in the brain, myoclonus can develop.\n- **Neurological disease:** Conditions such as [multiple sclerosis](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/multiple-sclerosis-overview-4581925), Parkinson's disease, dementia with Lewy bodies, Alzheimer's disease, [celiac disease](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/celiac-disease-symptoms-4014337), and epilepsy can cause myoclonus.\n- **Trauma:** Injuries to the brain, spinal cord, or nervous system that affect nerve pathways can trigger myoclonus.\n- **Metabolic disorders:** Conditions like liver or kidney disease may lead to myoclonus.\n- **Infection:** Nervous system infections, including herpes simplex virus and [Lyme disease](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/lyme-disease-7151644), can cause myoclonus.\n- **Cancer:** Myoclonus is linked to cancers like leukemia, lymphoma, neuroblastoma, and lung, ovarian, or breast cancers.\n- **Unknown causes**: This type is often called essential myoclonus.\n\nWhen doctors identify the underlying issue, they can better determine if treatment is needed.\n\n### What Is Restless Leg Syndrome?\nRestless leg syndrome is a disorder that causes a person to experience a strong, uncontrolled urge to move their legs. This feeling can go away soon afterward or immediately upon experiencing the urge, but there are minor differences in how it feels between people. It has been observed to occur with sleep myoclonus.\n### Children\nIn infants, benign (non-threatening) sleep myoclonus appears as repetitive twitches in the arms, legs, or torso during sleep.\n\nAlthough research on infant myoclonus is limited, it is generally considered harmless. Occasionally, a healthcare provider may perform an electroencephalography (EEG) test to distinguish it from epilepsy.\n\nOther causes of myoclonus in children can include:\n\n- **Fever or infection:** Abrupt episodes of myoclonus may occur after a child has a fever or infection, typically resolving on their own.\n- **Tumor:** Neoblastoma is the most common type of malignant tumor in children seven years and younger. Approximately 2% to 3% of children with neoblastoma develop opsoclonus–myoclonus syndrome (OMS), which causes loss of coordination, tremors (often in the hands), and an inability to walk or sit.\n- **Trauma:** A brain or spinal cord injury can also trigger myoclonus in children if it damages the nervous system. Brief episodes of myoclonus may begin immediately after the injury and often resolve abruptly on their own.\n## What Are the Different Types of Myoclonus?\nThere are two types of myoclonus: positive and negative myoclonus. Positive myoclonus happens when muscles abruptly contract. Negative myoclonus happens when muscles that are contracting suddenly stop.\n\nThere are numerous forms of myoclonus, but some of them aren't sleep myoclonus:\n\n- **Action myoclonus** is triggered by a movement you make or an intention to move, typically affecting the arms, legs, and face. It can be caused by brain damage due to a lack of oxygen, or happen as a symptom of another underlying neurological condition.\n- **Cortical myoclonus**, whichis one of the most common forms of myoclonus, typically affects the upper limbs and face. Cortical myoclonus may be positive, negative, or both at the same time.\n- **Epileptic myoclonus** is common among people who live with epilepsy. It can happen as one component of a seizure, or on its own in the absence of a seizure. It typically happens in children with epilepsy.\n- **Essential myoclonus** is myoclonus which may be the primary symptom of an underlying illness, the only symptom of an underlying illness, or idiopathic (unrelated to illness). It tends to be chronic.\n- **Myoclonus-renal failure syndrome** is an extremely rare form of myoclonic epilepsy. Its symptoms may begin as early as age nine and progressively worsen, eventually leading to end-stage kidney failure.\n- **Palatal myoclonus** is slow, rhythmic muscle contractions that can happen while asleep or awake, typically affecting the eyes, face, tongue, larynx (voice box), and the intercostal muscles between the ribs.\n- **Peripheral myoclonus** rhythmic or sporadic jerking movements caused by a nerve injury or a lesion (i.e., a lipoma or other benign tumor) in a peripheral nerve, root nerves, or plexus nerves.\n- **Propriospinal myoclonus** originates in the spine and may involve the neck, waist, knees, and hips, but not the face. It typically occurs in a lying down position, sometimes during the transition between wakefulness and sleep. It is more common in middle-aged men, and may be related to spinal, trauma, tumor, or infection.\n- **Startle syndrome** is abrupt, rapid body jerking that happens when you are surprised by a sudden stimulus, such as a loud noise. It is normal and persists throughout life.\n- **Symptomatic myoclonus** is spawned by a variety of underlying medical conditions, including Parkinson's, infection, kidney failure, hyperthyroidism, and even vitamin E deficiency.\n## How It's Diagnosed\nTo find the cause of myoclonus, your healthcare provider will first consider:\n\n- Your age\n- Medications you’re taking\n- Recent falls, car accidents, or other injuries\n- Family history\n\nYour provider will ask you about the tremors or spasms you experience. They may ask which body part seems to be affected, how frequently the myoclonus occurs, and how long the episodes seem to last. They may also ask if you are experiencing any other new or unusual symptoms.\n\nDepending on this information, your provider may recommend one or more of the following tests:\n\n- [**Electroencephalogram (EEG)**](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/what-is-an-eeg-test-and-what-is-it-used-for-3014879)**:** Small discs (electrodes) are placed on your scalp to track your brainwaves for patterns that can reveal where the myoclonus starts.\n- [**Electromyography (EMG)**](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/electromyography-7152418)**:** Tiny needles through your skin and into your muscles to check the health of your muscles and the nerves that control them.\n- [**Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)**](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/what-is-an-mri-and-what-does-it-do-3157069)**:** An MRI machine takes detailed images of your organs and tissues using magnetic fields and radio waves. MRIs do not involve radiation.\n- **Blood test:** Your provider may order a blood test to check for signs of increased immune system activity, which can point to infection and other illnesses.\n## What Are the Treatment Options?\nSleep myoclonus is not considered serious or in need of treatment unless it interferes with sleep and\/or someone's quality of life.\n\nIf it does, the condition may be treated with Xenazine (tetrabenazine), a drug often used to treat movement disorders such as [Huntington’s disease](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/huntingtons-disease-11697734).\n\nIn most cases, however, treatment is not necessary if sleep is relatively normal. Sleep myoclonus is widely referred to as a \"benign\" condition, meaning that it has no short- or long-term effects on the health or well-being of the affected individual.\n\n## When to See a Healthcare Provider\nThe occasional muscle jerk as you're drifting off to sleep is nothing to be concerned about. However, if the myoclonus is disrupting your sleep or happening while you are awake, see your healthcare provider for an evaluation.\n\nYou should also see a healthcare provider if:\n\n- The myoclonus happens persistently or frequently or is increasing in frequency\n- The myoclonus interferes with eating, speaking, walking, or other activities\n- You are experiencing a new type of myoclonus\n- You have any other new or unusual symptoms, including [signs of infection](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/infection-symptoms-5185799) or [signs of epilepsy](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/risks-and-complications-of-seizures-4685790)\n\nCall 911 or go to the nearest urgent care if you if you experience any signs of epilepsy, including:\n\n- Changes in consciousness\n- Weakness\n- Visual auras, such as flashes of light or tunnel vision\n- Auditory (hearing) auras, such as ringing, buzzing, or distorted sounds\n- Somatosensory auras, like tingling or a feeling of moving despite being still\n- A metallic taste in your mouth\n- A sudden sense of impending doom\n\n14 Sources\n\nVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our [editorial process](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/verywell-editorial-process-4777042) to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.\n\n1. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. [Myoclonus](https:\/\/www.ninds.nih.gov\/health-information\/disorders\/myoclonus).\n2. National Institute on Aging. [Parkinson's disease: Causes, symptoms, and treatments](https:\/\/www.nia.nih.gov\/health\/parkinsons-disease).\n3. SQ Online. [Hypnic jerks: The mysterious sensation of falling and spazzing awake](https:\/\/sqonline.ucsd.edu\/2021\/05\/hypnic-jerks-the-mysterious-sensation-of-falling-and-spazzing-awake\/).\n4. Chanddarana M, Saraf U, Divya KP, Krishnan S, Kishore A. [Myoclonus- a review](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.4103%2Faian.AIAN_1180_20). *Ann Indian Acad Neurol*. 2021 May;24(3):327-338. doi:10.4103\/aian.AIAN\\_1180\\_20\n5. Janssen S, Bloem B, van de Warrenburg B. [The clinical heterogeneity of of drug-induced myoclonus: an illustrated review](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1007%2Fs00415-016-8357-z). *J Neurol*. 2017;264(8):1559-1566. doi:10.1007\/s00415-016-8357-z\n6. Baylor Medicine. [Myoclonus](https:\/\/www.bcm.edu\/healthcare\/specialties\/neurology\/parkinsons-disease-and-movement-disorders\/myoclonus).\n7. Nichols J, Lee B, Chung K. [A case of paraneoplastic myoclonus attributed to non-small cell lung cancer](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.5334%2Ftohm.42). *Tremor Other Hyperkinet Mov (NY)*. 2020 Jun;10(1):7. doi:10.5334\/tohm.42\n8. Mount Sinai. [Restless legs syndrome and related disorders](https:\/\/www.mountsinai.org\/health-library\/report\/restless-legs-syndrome-and-related-disorders).\n9. Sleep Foundation. [Benign neonatal sleep myoclonus](https:\/\/www.sleepfoundation.org\/baby-sleep\/benign-neonatal-sleep-myoclonus).\n10. Delucchi V, Pavlidis E, Piccolo B, Pisani F. [Febrile and postinfectious myoclonus: Case reports and review of the literature](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1055\/s-0034-1395347). *Neuropediatrics*. 2015 Geb;46(1):26-32. doi:10.1055\/s-0034-1395347\n11. Xie S, Bai C, Li K, Dong K, Yao W. [Comparison of mediastinal and non-mediastinal neuroblastoma and ganglioneuroblastoma associated with opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome: a systematic review and meta analysis](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.21037%2Ftcr-22-1120). *Transl Cancer Res*. 2022 Oct;11(10):3741-3753. doi:10.21037\/tcr-22-1120\n12. Facini C, Barsacchi M, Piccolo B, Turco E, Pisani F. [Early onset of propriospinal-like myoclonus in a child following a vertebral fracture](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1212\/WNL.0000000000003053). *Neurology*. 2016 Aug;87(9):1-2. doi:10.1212\/WNL.0000000000003053\n13. Bhowmick S, Lang A. [Movement disorders and renal diseases](https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1002\/mdc3.13005). *Move Dis*. 2020 Oct;7(7):763-779. doi:10.1002\/mdc3.13005\n14. Johns Hopkins Medicine. [Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)](https:\/\/www.hopkinsmedicine.org\/health\/treatment-tests-and-therapies\/magnetic-resonance-imaging-mri).\n\n![Brandon Peters, M.D.](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/BbtKTL7wVNFD-4Y2KIj4azA0HpE=\/144x144\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/BrandonPetersMD_1000-5143e542c3084368b1220c4b86ede01c.png)\n\nBy [Brandon Peters, MD](https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/brandon-peters-md-3014640)   \n Dr. Peters is a board-certified neurologist and sleep medicine specialist and is a fellow of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.\n\nWas this page helpful?\n\nThanks for your feedback\\!\n\nWhat is your feedback?","meta_canonical":null,"ml_categories_json":"{\"\/Health\":999,\"\/Health\/Health_Conditions\":979,\"\/Health\/Health_Conditions\/Neurological_Conditions\":679}","ml_types_json":"{\"\/Article\":999,\"\/Article\/Definitions\":787}","ml_intent_types_json":"{\"Informational\":999}","meta_language":"en","attrs_author":null,"attrs_publish_time":0,"attrs_original_publish_time":1525896395,"attrs_is_republished":0,"attrs_nr_words":"2346","attrs_boilerpipe_nr_words":"1820","body_ext_links_number":28,"body_int_links_number":69,"meta_nofollow":0,"meta_noarchive":1,"props_was_rendered":0,"src_redirect":"","download_time_msec":177,"download_ttfb_msec":132,"download_size":56183}

3. Robots.txt Check

Query:

Response:

4. Spam/Ban Check

Query:

Response:

5. Seen Status Check

ℹ️ Skipped - page is already crawled

📄

INDEXABLE

✅

CRAWLED

7 days ago

🤖

ROBOTS ALLOWED

Page Info Filters

Filter	Status	Condition	Details
HTTP status	PASS	`download_http_code = 200`	HTTP 200
Age cutoff	PASS	`download_stamp > now() - 6 MONTH`	0.2 months ago
History drop	PASS	`isNull(history_drop_reason)`	No drop reason
Spam/ban	PASS	`fh_dont_index != 1 AND ml_spam_score = 0`	ml_spam_score=0
Canonical	PASS	`meta_canonical IS NULL OR = '' OR = src_unparsed`	Not set

Page Details

Property

Value

URL

https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-sleep-myoclonus-3014807

Last Crawled

2026-04-16 04:17:02 (7 days ago)

First Indexed

2018-05-09 20:06:35 (7 years ago)

HTTP Status Code

200

Content

Meta Title

What Is Sleep Myoclonus and Should You Be Concerned?

Meta Description

Sleep myoclonus involves sudden, involuntary muscle movements during sleep. Learn its symptoms, causes, and when it may require treatment.

Meta Canonical

null

Boilerpipe Text

Key Takeaways Sleep myoclonus is a normal, brief twitch or jerk that happens when you are falling asleep or sleeping. Medical treatment is only necessary if myoclonus disrupts sleep or daily life. Sleep myoclonus describes brief, involuntary muscle twitching or jerking that typically happens as you're drifting off to sleep. It's more common in childhood but can linger through adulthood. Most of the time, sleep myoclonus is perfectly normal and nothing to worry about, but it may require medical attention if it disrupts your sleep or quality of life. Verywell / Emily Roberts How to Recognize Sleep Myoclonus Sleep myoclonus symptoms, which are easy to notice, include twitching, jerking, shaking, spasms, or muscle contractions. These may happen once or multiple times, either as a single event or throughout the night, with or without a pattern. Common characteristics of these symptoms are that they are: Brief Involuntary Localized to one part of the body or widespread Shock-like Sudden Variable in intensity and frequency Sleep myoclonus generally happens during the early stages of sleep, often as you're falling asleep. External stimuli like noise, movement, or light can sometimes trigger it. Why Does Sleep Myoclonus Happen? Some known causes of sleep myoclonus are more likely to affect certain age groups. For instance, Parkinson's disease, which typically appears after age 60, can be a cause. The exact cause of sleep myoclonus remains unclear, but researchers propose a few theories. A main theory involves sleep atonia, a natural process where your muscles are paralyzed as you enter deeper sleep stages. During sleep atonia, movement signals from the brain relax. Occasionally, this transition is not smooth, leading to electrical signals that cause muscle spasms. Adults Some types of myoclonus, such as sleep myoclonus and hiccups, occur in all age groups. Other forms result from conditions that mainly affect adults, or from medications more commonly used by them. In adults, myoclonus may be triggered by: Medications: Some drugs, like opiates, antidepressants, antipsychotics, antiseizure medications (ASMs), and antibiotics, may cause myoclonus as a side effect. Stroke: After a stroke that damages a nerve pathway in the brain, myoclonus can develop. Neurological disease: Conditions such as multiple sclerosis , Parkinson's disease, dementia with Lewy bodies, Alzheimer's disease, celiac disease , and epilepsy can cause myoclonus. Trauma: Injuries to the brain, spinal cord, or nervous system that affect nerve pathways can trigger myoclonus. Metabolic disorders: Conditions like liver or kidney disease may lead to myoclonus. Infection: Nervous system infections, including herpes simplex virus and Lyme disease , can cause myoclonus. Cancer: Myoclonus is linked to cancers like leukemia, lymphoma, neuroblastoma, and lung, ovarian, or breast cancers. Unknown causes : This type is often called essential myoclonus. When doctors identify the underlying issue, they can better determine if treatment is needed. What Is Restless Leg Syndrome? Restless leg syndrome is a disorder that causes a person to experience a strong, uncontrolled urge to move their legs. This feeling can go away soon afterward or immediately upon experiencing the urge, but there are minor differences in how it feels between people. It has been observed to occur with sleep myoclonus. Children In infants, benign (non-threatening) sleep myoclonus appears as repetitive twitches in the arms, legs, or torso during sleep. Although research on infant myoclonus is limited, it is generally considered harmless. Occasionally, a healthcare provider may perform an electroencephalography (EEG) test to distinguish it from epilepsy. Other causes of myoclonus in children can include: Fever or infection: Abrupt episodes of myoclonus may occur after a child has a fever or infection, typically resolving on their own. Tumor: Neoblastoma is the most common type of malignant tumor in children seven years and younger. Approximately 2% to 3% of children with neoblastoma develop opsoclonus–myoclonus syndrome (OMS), which causes loss of coordination, tremors (often in the hands), and an inability to walk or sit. Trauma: A brain or spinal cord injury can also trigger myoclonus in children if it damages the nervous system. Brief episodes of myoclonus may begin immediately after the injury and often resolve abruptly on their own. What Are the Different Types of Myoclonus? There are two types of myoclonus: positive and negative myoclonus. Positive myoclonus happens when muscles abruptly contract. Negative myoclonus happens when muscles that are contracting suddenly stop. There are numerous forms of myoclonus, but some of them aren't sleep myoclonus: Action myoclonus is triggered by a movement you make or an intention to move, typically affecting the arms, legs, and face. It can be caused by brain damage due to a lack of oxygen, or happen as a symptom of another underlying neurological condition. Cortical myoclonus , which is one of the most common forms of myoclonus, typically affects the upper limbs and face. Cortical myoclonus may be positive, negative, or both at the same time. Epileptic myoclonus is common among people who live with epilepsy. It can happen as one component of a seizure, or on its own in the absence of a seizure. It typically happens in children with epilepsy. Essential myoclonus is myoclonus which may be the primary symptom of an underlying illness, the only symptom of an underlying illness, or idiopathic (unrelated to illness). It tends to be chronic. Myoclonus-renal failure syndrome is an extremely rare form of myoclonic epilepsy. Its symptoms may begin as early as age nine and progressively worsen, eventually leading to end-stage kidney failure. Palatal myoclonus is slow, rhythmic muscle contractions that can happen while asleep or awake, typically affecting the eyes, face, tongue, larynx (voice box), and the intercostal muscles between the ribs. Peripheral myoclonus rhythmic or sporadic jerking movements caused by a nerve injury or a lesion (i.e., a lipoma or other benign tumor) in a peripheral nerve, root nerves, or plexus nerves. Propriospinal myoclonus originates in the spine and may involve the neck, waist, knees, and hips, but not the face. It typically occurs in a lying down position, sometimes during the transition between wakefulness and sleep. It is more common in middle-aged men, and may be related to spinal, trauma, tumor, or infection. Startle syndrome is abrupt, rapid body jerking that happens when you are surprised by a sudden stimulus, such as a loud noise. It is normal and persists throughout life. Symptomatic myoclonus is spawned by a variety of underlying medical conditions, including Parkinson's, infection, kidney failure, hyperthyroidism, and even vitamin E deficiency. How It's Diagnosed To find the cause of myoclonus, your healthcare provider will first consider: Your age Medications you’re taking Recent falls, car accidents, or other injuries Family history Your provider will ask you about the tremors or spasms you experience. They may ask which body part seems to be affected, how frequently the myoclonus occurs, and how long the episodes seem to last. They may also ask if you are experiencing any other new or unusual symptoms. Depending on this information, your provider may recommend one or more of the following tests: Electroencephalogram (EEG) : Small discs (electrodes) are placed on your scalp to track your brainwaves for patterns that can reveal where the myoclonus starts. Electromyography (EMG) : Tiny needles through your skin and into your muscles to check the health of your muscles and the nerves that control them. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) : An MRI machine takes detailed images of your organs and tissues using magnetic fields and radio waves. MRIs do not involve radiation. Blood test: Your provider may order a blood test to check for signs of increased immune system activity, which can point to infection and other illnesses. What Are the Treatment Options? Sleep myoclonus is not considered serious or in need of treatment unless it interferes with sleep and/or someone's quality of life. If it does, the condition may be treated with Xenazine (tetrabenazine), a drug often used to treat movement disorders such as Huntington’s disease . In most cases, however, treatment is not necessary if sleep is relatively normal. Sleep myoclonus is widely referred to as a "benign" condition, meaning that it has no short- or long-term effects on the health or well-being of the affected individual. When to See a Healthcare Provider The occasional muscle jerk as you're drifting off to sleep is nothing to be concerned about. However, if the myoclonus is disrupting your sleep or happening while you are awake, see your healthcare provider for an evaluation. You should also see a healthcare provider if: The myoclonus happens persistently or frequently or is increasing in frequency The myoclonus interferes with eating, speaking, walking, or other activities You are experiencing a new type of myoclonus You have any other new or unusual symptoms, including signs of infection or signs of epilepsy Call 911 or go to the nearest urgent care if you if you experience any signs of epilepsy, including: Changes in consciousness Weakness Visual auras, such as flashes of light or tunnel vision Auditory (hearing) auras, such as ringing, buzzing, or distorted sounds Somatosensory auras, like tingling or a feeling of moving despite being still A metallic taste in your mouth A sudden sense of impending doom 14 Sources Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Myoclonus . National Institute on Aging. Parkinson's disease: Causes, symptoms, and treatments . SQ Online. Hypnic jerks: The mysterious sensation of falling and spazzing awake . Chanddarana M, Saraf U, Divya KP, Krishnan S, Kishore A. Myoclonus- a review . Ann Indian Acad Neurol . 2021 May;24(3):327-338. doi:10.4103/aian.AIAN_1180_20 Janssen S, Bloem B, van de Warrenburg B. The clinical heterogeneity of of drug-induced myoclonus: an illustrated review . J Neurol . 2017;264(8):1559-1566. doi:10.1007/s00415-016-8357-z Baylor Medicine. Myoclonus . Nichols J, Lee B, Chung K. A case of paraneoplastic myoclonus attributed to non-small cell lung cancer . Tremor Other Hyperkinet Mov (NY) . 2020 Jun;10(1):7. doi:10.5334/tohm.42 Mount Sinai. Restless legs syndrome and related disorders . Sleep Foundation. Benign neonatal sleep myoclonus . Delucchi V, Pavlidis E, Piccolo B, Pisani F. Febrile and postinfectious myoclonus: Case reports and review of the literature . Neuropediatrics . 2015 Geb;46(1):26-32. doi:10.1055/s-0034-1395347 Xie S, Bai C, Li K, Dong K, Yao W. Comparison of mediastinal and non-mediastinal neuroblastoma and ganglioneuroblastoma associated with opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome: a systematic review and meta analysis . Transl Cancer Res . 2022 Oct;11(10):3741-3753. doi:10.21037/tcr-22-1120 Facini C, Barsacchi M, Piccolo B, Turco E, Pisani F. Early onset of propriospinal-like myoclonus in a child following a vertebral fracture . Neurology . 2016 Aug;87(9):1-2. doi:10.1212/WNL.0000000000003053 Bhowmick S, Lang A. Movement disorders and renal diseases . Move Dis . 2020 Oct;7(7):763-779. doi:10.1002/mdc3.13005 Johns Hopkins Medicine. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) . By Brandon Peters, MD Dr. Peters is a board-certified neurologist and sleep medicine specialist and is a fellow of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback?

Markdown

[Skip to content](https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-sleep-myoclonus-3014807#skip-to-content) Menu - [Health A-Z](https://www.verywellhealth.com/health-a-z-4014770) - [Colorectal Cancer](https://www.verywellhealth.com/colon-cancer-4014742) - [Arthritis](https://www.verywellhealth.com/arthritis-overview-4582013) - [Type 2 Diabetes](https://www.verywellhealth.com/type-2-diabetes-overview-4581874) - [Digestive Health](https://www.verywellhealth.com/digestive-health-4141198) - [Multiple Sclerosis](https://www.verywellhealth.com/multiple-sclerosis-overview-4581925) - [Skin Health](https://www.verywellhealth.com/skin-health-4014649) - [View All](https://www.verywellhealth.com/health-a-z-4014770) - [Prevention & Treatment](https://www.verywellhealth.com/prevention-and-treatment-4158390) - [Diet & Nutrition](https://www.verywellhealth.com/nutrition-diet-and-healthy-eating-5202128) - [First Aid](https://www.verywellhealth.com/first-aid-4014723) - [Surgery](https://www.verywellhealth.com/surgery-overview-4581881) - [Health Care](https://www.verywellhealth.com/health-care-4014769) - [Health Insurance](https://www.verywellhealth.com/health-insurance-overview-4581967) - [Public Health](https://www.verywellhealth.com/public-health-4158386) - [Patient Rights](https://www.verywellhealth.com/patient-rights-4014673) - [Disability](https://www.verywellhealth.com/disability-4014735) - [Caregivers & Loved Ones](https://www.verywellhealth.com/for-caregivers-and-loved-ones-4014749) - [End of Life Concerns](https://www.verywellhealth.com/end-of-life-overview-4581973) - [View All](https://www.verywellhealth.com/health-care-4014769) - [News](https://www.verywellhealth.com/news-4846412) - [Health News](https://www.verywellhealth.com/health-news-4844929) - [Studies & Guidelines](https://www.verywellhealth.com/studies-and-guidelines-11869035) - Tools & Resources - [Thyroid Test Analyzer](https://www.verywellhealth.com/thyroid-test-analyzer-8647820) - [Doctor Discussion Guides](https://www.verywellhealth.com/doctor-discussion-guides-4179090) - [Hemoglobin A1c Test Analyzer](https://www.verywellhealth.com/a1c-test-analyzer-8647852) - [Lipid Test Analyzer](https://www.verywellhealth.com/lipid-test-analyzer-8647856) - [Complete Blood Count (CBC) Analyzer](https://www.verywellhealth.com/complete-blood-count-cbc-analyzer-8647862) - [About Us](https://www.verywellhealth.com/about-us-5180305) - [Editorial Process](https://www.verywellhealth.com/verywell-editorial-process-4777042) - [Meet Our Medical Expert Board](https://www.verywellhealth.com/meet-our-medical-expert-board-11762003) Search - [Health A-Z](https://www.verywellhealth.com/health-a-z-4014770) - [Colorectal Cancer](https://www.verywellhealth.com/colon-cancer-4014742) - [Arthritis](https://www.verywellhealth.com/arthritis-overview-4582013) - [Type 2 Diabetes](https://www.verywellhealth.com/type-2-diabetes-overview-4581874) - [Digestive Health](https://www.verywellhealth.com/digestive-health-4141198) - [Multiple Sclerosis](https://www.verywellhealth.com/multiple-sclerosis-overview-4581925) - [Skin Health](https://www.verywellhealth.com/skin-health-4014649) - [View All](https://www.verywellhealth.com/health-a-z-4014770) - [Prevention & Treatment](https://www.verywellhealth.com/prevention-and-treatment-4158390) - [Diet & Nutrition](https://www.verywellhealth.com/nutrition-diet-and-healthy-eating-5202128) - [First Aid](https://www.verywellhealth.com/first-aid-4014723) - [Surgery](https://www.verywellhealth.com/surgery-overview-4581881) - [View All](https://www.verywellhealth.com/prevention-and-treatment-4158390) - [Health Care](https://www.verywellhealth.com/health-care-4014769) - [Health Insurance](https://www.verywellhealth.com/health-insurance-overview-4581967) - [Public Health](https://www.verywellhealth.com/public-health-4158386) - [Patient Rights](https://www.verywellhealth.com/patient-rights-4014673) - [Disability](https://www.verywellhealth.com/disability-4014735) - [Caregivers & Loved Ones](https://www.verywellhealth.com/for-caregivers-and-loved-ones-4014749) - [End of Life Concerns](https://www.verywellhealth.com/end-of-life-overview-4581973) - [View All](https://www.verywellhealth.com/health-care-4014769) - [News](https://www.verywellhealth.com/news-4846412) - [Health News](https://www.verywellhealth.com/health-news-4844929) - [Studies & Guidelines](https://www.verywellhealth.com/studies-and-guidelines-11869035) - [View All](https://www.verywellhealth.com/news-4846412) [More in Sleep Disorders](https://www.verywellhealth.com/sleep-disorders-4014648) - [Insomnia & More Disorders](https://www.verywellhealth.com/insomnia-and-more-sleep-disorders-4013520) - [Symptoms](https://www.verywellhealth.com/sleep-disorder-symptoms-4158398) - [Causes & Risk Factors](https://www.verywellhealth.com/sleep-disorder-causes-4014585) - [Diagnosis](https://www.verywellhealth.com/sleep-disorder-diagnosis-4014299) - [Treatment](https://www.verywellhealth.com/sleep-disorder-treatment-4013401) - [Living With](https://www.verywellhealth.com/sleep-disorders-living-with-4013358) - [Sleep Apnea](https://www.verywellhealth.com/sleep-apnea-4158397) - [Healthy Sleep Habits](https://www.verywellhealth.com/healthy-sleep-habits-4013619) [View More](https://www.verywellhealth.com/sleep-disorders-4014648) Tools & Resources - [Thyroid Test Analyzer](https://www.verywellhealth.com/thyroid-test-analyzer-8647820) - [Doctor Discussion Guides](https://www.verywellhealth.com/doctor-discussion-guides-4179090) - [Hemoglobin A1c Test Analyzer](https://www.verywellhealth.com/a1c-test-analyzer-8647852) - [Lipid Test Analyzer](https://www.verywellhealth.com/lipid-test-analyzer-8647856) - [Complete Blood Count (CBC) Analyzer](https://www.verywellhealth.com/complete-blood-count-cbc-analyzer-8647862) - [About Us](https://www.verywellhealth.com/about-us-5180305) - [Editorial Process](https://www.verywellhealth.com/verywell-editorial-process-4777042) - [Medical Review Board](https://www.verywellhealth.com/meet-our-medical-expert-board-11762003) Verywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Ⓒ 2026 People Inc. — All rights reserved # What Is Sleep Myoclonus and Should You Be Concerned? By [Brandon Peters, MD](https://www.verywellhealth.com/brandon-peters-md-3014640) Updated on March 15, 2026 Medically reviewed by [Jonathan B. Jassey, DO](https://www.verywellhealth.com/jonathan-b-jassey-do-4775576) Table of Contents View All Table of Contents - [Symptoms](https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-sleep-myoclonus-3014807#toc-how-to-recognize-sleep-myoclonus) - [Causes](https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-sleep-myoclonus-3014807#toc-why-does-sleep-myoclonus-happen) - [Types](https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-sleep-myoclonus-3014807#toc-what-are-the-different-types-of-myoclonus) - [Diagnosis](https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-sleep-myoclonus-3014807#toc-how-its-diagnosed) - [Treatment](https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-sleep-myoclonus-3014807#toc-what-are-the-treatment-options) - [When to See a Healthcare Provider](https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-sleep-myoclonus-3014807#toc-when-to-see-a-healthcare-provider) ### Key Takeaways - Sleep myoclonus is a normal, brief twitch or jerk that happens when you are falling asleep or sleeping. - Medical treatment is only necessary if myoclonus disrupts sleep or daily life. Sleep myoclonus describes brief, involuntary muscle twitching or jerking that typically happens as you're drifting off to sleep. It's more common in childhood but can linger through adulthood. Most of the time, sleep myoclonus is perfectly normal and nothing to worry about, but it may require medical attention if it disrupts your sleep or quality of life. ![Causes of Sleep Myoclonus]() ![Causes of Sleep Myoclonus](https://www.verywellhealth.com/thmb/_Vv-S6tFx4kjXs85U0Gl_8SrHZ8=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/what-is-sleep-myoclonus-3014807_final-7ed9480f6cd84571bd9019a52c2b0951.png) Verywell / Emily Roberts ## How to Recognize Sleep Myoclonus Sleep myoclonus symptoms, which are easy to notice, include twitching, jerking, shaking, spasms, or muscle contractions. These may happen once or multiple times, either as a single event or throughout the night, with or without a pattern. Common characteristics of these symptoms are that they are: - Brief - Involuntary - Localized to one part of the body or widespread - Shock-like - Sudden - Variable in intensity and frequency Sleep myoclonus generally happens during the early stages of sleep, often as you're falling asleep. External stimuli like noise, movement, or light can sometimes trigger it. ## Why Does Sleep Myoclonus Happen? Some known causes of sleep myoclonus are more likely to affect certain age groups. For instance, [Parkinson's](https://www.verywellhealth.com/parkinsons-disease-facts-5324573) disease, which typically appears after age 60, can be a cause. The exact cause of sleep myoclonus remains unclear, but researchers propose a few theories. A main theory involves sleep atonia, a natural process where your muscles are paralyzed as you enter deeper sleep stages. During sleep atonia, movement signals from the brain relax. Occasionally, this transition is not smooth, leading to electrical signals that cause muscle spasms. ### Adults Some types of myoclonus, such as sleep myoclonus and hiccups, occur in all age groups. Other forms result from conditions that mainly affect adults, or from medications more commonly used by them. In adults, myoclonus may be triggered by: - **Medications:** Some drugs, like opiates, antidepressants, antipsychotics, antiseizure medications (ASMs), and antibiotics, may cause myoclonus as a side effect. - **Stroke:** After a stroke that damages a nerve pathway in the brain, myoclonus can develop. - **Neurological disease:** Conditions such as [multiple sclerosis](https://www.verywellhealth.com/multiple-sclerosis-overview-4581925), Parkinson's disease, dementia with Lewy bodies, Alzheimer's disease, [celiac disease](https://www.verywellhealth.com/celiac-disease-symptoms-4014337), and epilepsy can cause myoclonus. - **Trauma:** Injuries to the brain, spinal cord, or nervous system that affect nerve pathways can trigger myoclonus. - **Metabolic disorders:** Conditions like liver or kidney disease may lead to myoclonus. - **Infection:** Nervous system infections, including herpes simplex virus and [Lyme disease](https://www.verywellhealth.com/lyme-disease-7151644), can cause myoclonus. - **Cancer:** Myoclonus is linked to cancers like leukemia, lymphoma, neuroblastoma, and lung, ovarian, or breast cancers. - **Unknown causes**: This type is often called essential myoclonus. When doctors identify the underlying issue, they can better determine if treatment is needed. ### What Is Restless Leg Syndrome? Restless leg syndrome is a disorder that causes a person to experience a strong, uncontrolled urge to move their legs. This feeling can go away soon afterward or immediately upon experiencing the urge, but there are minor differences in how it feels between people. It has been observed to occur with sleep myoclonus. ### Children In infants, benign (non-threatening) sleep myoclonus appears as repetitive twitches in the arms, legs, or torso during sleep. Although research on infant myoclonus is limited, it is generally considered harmless. Occasionally, a healthcare provider may perform an electroencephalography (EEG) test to distinguish it from epilepsy. Other causes of myoclonus in children can include: - **Fever or infection:** Abrupt episodes of myoclonus may occur after a child has a fever or infection, typically resolving on their own. - **Tumor:** Neoblastoma is the most common type of malignant tumor in children seven years and younger. Approximately 2% to 3% of children with neoblastoma develop opsoclonus–myoclonus syndrome (OMS), which causes loss of coordination, tremors (often in the hands), and an inability to walk or sit. - **Trauma:** A brain or spinal cord injury can also trigger myoclonus in children if it damages the nervous system. Brief episodes of myoclonus may begin immediately after the injury and often resolve abruptly on their own. ## What Are the Different Types of Myoclonus? There are two types of myoclonus: positive and negative myoclonus. Positive myoclonus happens when muscles abruptly contract. Negative myoclonus happens when muscles that are contracting suddenly stop. There are numerous forms of myoclonus, but some of them aren't sleep myoclonus: - **Action myoclonus** is triggered by a movement you make or an intention to move, typically affecting the arms, legs, and face. It can be caused by brain damage due to a lack of oxygen, or happen as a symptom of another underlying neurological condition. - **Cortical myoclonus**, whichis one of the most common forms of myoclonus, typically affects the upper limbs and face. Cortical myoclonus may be positive, negative, or both at the same time. - **Epileptic myoclonus** is common among people who live with epilepsy. It can happen as one component of a seizure, or on its own in the absence of a seizure. It typically happens in children with epilepsy. - **Essential myoclonus** is myoclonus which may be the primary symptom of an underlying illness, the only symptom of an underlying illness, or idiopathic (unrelated to illness). It tends to be chronic. - **Myoclonus-renal failure syndrome** is an extremely rare form of myoclonic epilepsy. Its symptoms may begin as early as age nine and progressively worsen, eventually leading to end-stage kidney failure. - **Palatal myoclonus** is slow, rhythmic muscle contractions that can happen while asleep or awake, typically affecting the eyes, face, tongue, larynx (voice box), and the intercostal muscles between the ribs. - **Peripheral myoclonus** rhythmic or sporadic jerking movements caused by a nerve injury or a lesion (i.e., a lipoma or other benign tumor) in a peripheral nerve, root nerves, or plexus nerves. - **Propriospinal myoclonus** originates in the spine and may involve the neck, waist, knees, and hips, but not the face. It typically occurs in a lying down position, sometimes during the transition between wakefulness and sleep. It is more common in middle-aged men, and may be related to spinal, trauma, tumor, or infection. - **Startle syndrome** is abrupt, rapid body jerking that happens when you are surprised by a sudden stimulus, such as a loud noise. It is normal and persists throughout life. - **Symptomatic myoclonus** is spawned by a variety of underlying medical conditions, including Parkinson's, infection, kidney failure, hyperthyroidism, and even vitamin E deficiency. ## How It's Diagnosed To find the cause of myoclonus, your healthcare provider will first consider: - Your age - Medications you’re taking - Recent falls, car accidents, or other injuries - Family history Your provider will ask you about the tremors or spasms you experience. They may ask which body part seems to be affected, how frequently the myoclonus occurs, and how long the episodes seem to last. They may also ask if you are experiencing any other new or unusual symptoms. Depending on this information, your provider may recommend one or more of the following tests: - [**Electroencephalogram (EEG)**](https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-an-eeg-test-and-what-is-it-used-for-3014879)**:** Small discs (electrodes) are placed on your scalp to track your brainwaves for patterns that can reveal where the myoclonus starts. - [**Electromyography (EMG)**](https://www.verywellhealth.com/electromyography-7152418)**:** Tiny needles through your skin and into your muscles to check the health of your muscles and the nerves that control them. - [**Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)**](https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-an-mri-and-what-does-it-do-3157069)**:** An MRI machine takes detailed images of your organs and tissues using magnetic fields and radio waves. MRIs do not involve radiation. - **Blood test:** Your provider may order a blood test to check for signs of increased immune system activity, which can point to infection and other illnesses. ## What Are the Treatment Options? Sleep myoclonus is not considered serious or in need of treatment unless it interferes with sleep and/or someone's quality of life. If it does, the condition may be treated with Xenazine (tetrabenazine), a drug often used to treat movement disorders such as [Huntington’s disease](https://www.verywellhealth.com/huntingtons-disease-11697734). In most cases, however, treatment is not necessary if sleep is relatively normal. Sleep myoclonus is widely referred to as a "benign" condition, meaning that it has no short- or long-term effects on the health or well-being of the affected individual. ## When to See a Healthcare Provider The occasional muscle jerk as you're drifting off to sleep is nothing to be concerned about. However, if the myoclonus is disrupting your sleep or happening while you are awake, see your healthcare provider for an evaluation. You should also see a healthcare provider if: - The myoclonus happens persistently or frequently or is increasing in frequency - The myoclonus interferes with eating, speaking, walking, or other activities - You are experiencing a new type of myoclonus - You have any other new or unusual symptoms, including [signs of infection](https://www.verywellhealth.com/infection-symptoms-5185799) or [signs of epilepsy](https://www.verywellhealth.com/risks-and-complications-of-seizures-4685790) Call 911 or go to the nearest urgent care if you if you experience any signs of epilepsy, including: - Changes in consciousness - Weakness - Visual auras, such as flashes of light or tunnel vision - Auditory (hearing) auras, such as ringing, buzzing, or distorted sounds - Somatosensory auras, like tingling or a feeling of moving despite being still - A metallic taste in your mouth - A sudden sense of impending doom Read more: - [Health A-Z](https://www.verywellhealth.com/health-a-z-4014770) - [Sleep Disorders](https://www.verywellhealth.com/sleep-disorders-4014648) - [Insomnia & More Disorders](https://www.verywellhealth.com/insomnia-and-more-sleep-disorders-4013520) 14 Sources Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our [editorial process](https://www.verywellhealth.com/verywell-editorial-process-4777042) to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. 1. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. [Myoclonus](https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/myoclonus). 2. National Institute on Aging. [Parkinson's disease: Causes, symptoms, and treatments](https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/parkinsons-disease). 3. SQ Online. [Hypnic jerks: The mysterious sensation of falling and spazzing awake](https://sqonline.ucsd.edu/2021/05/hypnic-jerks-the-mysterious-sensation-of-falling-and-spazzing-awake/). 4. Chanddarana M, Saraf U, Divya KP, Krishnan S, Kishore A. [Myoclonus- a review](https://doi.org/10.4103%2Faian.AIAN_1180_20). *Ann Indian Acad Neurol*. 2021 May;24(3):327-338. doi:10.4103/aian.AIAN\_1180\_20 5. Janssen S, Bloem B, van de Warrenburg B. [The clinical heterogeneity of of drug-induced myoclonus: an illustrated review](https://doi.org/10.1007%2Fs00415-016-8357-z). *J Neurol*. 2017;264(8):1559-1566. doi:10.1007/s00415-016-8357-z 6. Baylor Medicine. [Myoclonus](https://www.bcm.edu/healthcare/specialties/neurology/parkinsons-disease-and-movement-disorders/myoclonus). 7. Nichols J, Lee B, Chung K. [A case of paraneoplastic myoclonus attributed to non-small cell lung cancer](https://doi.org/10.5334%2Ftohm.42). *Tremor Other Hyperkinet Mov (NY)*. 2020 Jun;10(1):7. doi:10.5334/tohm.42 8. Mount Sinai. [Restless legs syndrome and related disorders](https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/report/restless-legs-syndrome-and-related-disorders). 9. Sleep Foundation. [Benign neonatal sleep myoclonus](https://www.sleepfoundation.org/baby-sleep/benign-neonatal-sleep-myoclonus). 10. Delucchi V, Pavlidis E, Piccolo B, Pisani F. [Febrile and postinfectious myoclonus: Case reports and review of the literature](https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0034-1395347). *Neuropediatrics*. 2015 Geb;46(1):26-32. doi:10.1055/s-0034-1395347 11. Xie S, Bai C, Li K, Dong K, Yao W. [Comparison of mediastinal and non-mediastinal neuroblastoma and ganglioneuroblastoma associated with opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome: a systematic review and meta analysis](https://doi.org/10.21037%2Ftcr-22-1120). *Transl Cancer Res*. 2022 Oct;11(10):3741-3753. doi:10.21037/tcr-22-1120 12. Facini C, Barsacchi M, Piccolo B, Turco E, Pisani F. [Early onset of propriospinal-like myoclonus in a child following a vertebral fracture](https://doi.org/10.1212/WNL.0000000000003053). *Neurology*. 2016 Aug;87(9):1-2. doi:10.1212/WNL.0000000000003053 13. Bhowmick S, Lang A. [Movement disorders and renal diseases](https://doi.org/10.1002/mdc3.13005). *Move Dis*. 2020 Oct;7(7):763-779. doi:10.1002/mdc3.13005 14. Johns Hopkins Medicine. [Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)](https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/magnetic-resonance-imaging-mri). ![Brandon Peters, M.D.]() ![Brandon Peters, M.D.](https://www.verywellhealth.com/thmb/BbtKTL7wVNFD-4Y2KIj4azA0HpE=/144x144/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/BrandonPetersMD_1000-5143e542c3084368b1220c4b86ede01c.png) By [Brandon Peters, MD](https://www.verywellhealth.com/brandon-peters-md-3014640) Dr. Peters is a board-certified neurologist and sleep medicine specialist and is a fellow of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. [See Our Editorial Process](https://www.verywellhealth.com/verywell-editorial-process-4777042) [Meet Our Medical Expert Board](https://www.verywellhealth.com/meet-our-medical-expert-board-11762003) Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback\! What is your feedback? Helpful Report an Error Other Related Articles [![Toddler sleeping on pillow may wake from a confusional arousal and have sleep drunkenness]() ![Toddler sleeping on pillow may wake from a confusional arousal and have sleep drunkenness](https://www.verywellhealth.com/thmb/ytfIe0LcJBmy2GMjkF-3efjTcHY=/400x250/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/toddler-sleeping-on-pillow-810485910-5a1f25cc842b17001954a872.jpg) Understanding Confusional Arousals or Sleep Drunkenness](https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-are-confusional-arousals-3014786) [![Man lying awake in bed due to symptoms of insomnia]() ![Man lying awake in bed due to symptoms of insomnia](https://www.verywellhealth.com/thmb/-AIBF6UMo_a6cbPK3sHumcafznY=/400x250/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/man-lying-awake-in-bed-522942240-59cc01ba22fa3a0011a509d1.jpg) Insomnia: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment](https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-insomnia-the-features-symptoms-and-causes-3014805) [![Bottles and pills of Ambien and Lunesta arranged in a Cambridge, Massachusetts pharmacy]() ![Bottles and pills of Ambien and Lunesta arranged in a Cambridge, Massachusetts pharmacy](https://www.verywellhealth.com/thmb/xwroXWBauzKD6hDKXImH0bGCmPg=/400x250/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-94818220-6667df5eb7a1423fa096894511400154.jpg) Lunesta vs. Ambien: How Do They Compare?](https://www.verywellhealth.com/lunesta-vs-ambien-8675475) [![A picture of a mom kissing her child in bed]() ![A picture of a mom kissing her child in bed](https://www.verywellhealth.com/thmb/WIk8LQaFROzOdkM7lN7Y95odMh4=/400x250/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/get-kids-to-go-to-sleep-56a8fd385f9b58b7d0f70c7b.jpg) Sleep-Related Rhythmic Movement Disorder (RMD)](https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-sleep-related-rhythmic-movement-disorder-3014802) [![Sad depressed woman suffering from insomnia, she is sitting in bed and touching her forehead, sleep disorder and stress concept - stock photo]() ![Sad depressed woman suffering from insomnia, she is sitting in bed and touching her forehead, sleep disorder and stress concept - stock photo](https://www.verywellhealth.com/thmb/0qJxmnp6QWkQwZySiVNkQlqB-LM=/400x250/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-901220642-d85a655b0775411194dd8ef0b31ee3c8.jpg) Why Am I Always Tired?](https://www.verywellhealth.com/reasons-why-you-feel-sleepy-3014818) [![An illustration about sleep paralysis hallucination including a dark outline with several eyes]() ![An illustration about sleep paralysis hallucination including a dark outline with several eyes](https://www.verywellhealth.com/thmb/k4B1q_R67_esPE-PZyu0xbnweiM=/400x250/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/VWH-EllenLindner-SymptomsofSleepParalysis-Recirc-a9705d657548477388cd3f860c889239.jpg) Understanding Sleep Paralysis Hallucinations and How to Stop Them](https://www.verywellhealth.com/symptoms-of-sleep-paralysis-3014781) [![Man sleeping in bed]() ![Man sleeping in bed](https://www.verywellhealth.com/thmb/oQJjluN_TkQ0eajuwOHtnF1THUs=/400x250/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/107070067_HighRes-569feda63df78cafda9f1d51.jpg) 9 Best Natural Sleep Aids](https://www.verywellhealth.com/natural-ways-to-help-you-sleep-88230) [![Woman sweating in bed]() ![Woman sweating in bed](https://www.verywellhealth.com/thmb/C3p7FZKgcYgmiuDORmdpI1OwvXw=/400x250/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-166678773-5a0077d1da271500377ac096.jpg) Why Do I Sweat in My Sleep?](https://www.verywellhealth.com/why-do-we-get-sweaty-in-sleep-3014752) [![Man sleeping and snoring, overhead view]() ![Man sleeping and snoring, overhead view](https://www.verywellhealth.com/thmb/PZYujizRD4sL6z2kJ2GCaafCgAg=/400x250/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-91531328-ce0d824984c84a9c96c5e4380a784850.jpg) What Happens If You Don’t Use Your CPAP Machine?](https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-happens-if-i-dont-use-cpap-one-night-3015053) [![A person sitting up in bed at night, looking anxious]() ![A person sitting up in bed at night, looking anxious](https://www.verywellhealth.com/thmb/ehJdP2tJBiGiMlFXof0H_MdtKW0=/400x250/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/awake-GettyImages-2162090876-c3733aa8a36d4c5d87dec01d7efe8b5e.jpg) Is Paradoxical Insomnia Real? Causes and Treatment](https://www.verywellhealth.com/paradoxical-insomnia-11706682) [![Person sitting on a bed wearing pajamas holding their head with a tired expression suggesting fatigue or morning exhaustion]() ![Person sitting on a bed wearing pajamas holding their head with a tired expression suggesting fatigue or morning exhaustion](https://www.verywellhealth.com/thmb/qMgzf0zUvTldnBiII_UhntFAD90=/400x250/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/VWH-GettyImages-1155604402-f2dae65a23d743259371218b43e4e11d.jpg) 8 Reasons You're Waking Up Groggy After a Full Night of Sleep](https://www.verywellhealth.com/reasons-waking-up-groggy-11940288) [![What to expect in overnight sleep study testing includes how to prepare, what happens during the study, and when results are interpreted]() ![What to expect in overnight sleep study testing includes how to prepare, what happens during the study, and when results are interpreted](https://www.verywellhealth.com/thmb/iidc9fsGnoA5qWc00wFWH5xcBNw=/400x250/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/72818730-56a884b35f9b58b7d0f3074e.JPG) What Is a Sleep Study (Polysomnogram)?](https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-to-expect-in-a-sleep-study-3015121) [![A woman in bed unable to sleep]() ![A woman in bed unable to sleep](https://www.verywellhealth.com/thmb/0ytM3qrrV0hfhu4HdmdlxVd6T4Q=/400x250/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/130897076_10-56a884b23df78cf7729e8396.JPG) Why Do I Wake Up With a Headache?](https://www.verywellhealth.com/obstructive-sleep-apnea-am-headaches-3014738) [![Woman yawning and can't wake up in morning because of insomnia - Trazodone]() ![Woman yawning and can't wake up in morning because of insomnia - Trazodone](https://www.verywellhealth.com/thmb/coEmxCX5Ql-CJFMC-_U3j5lQ-4w=/400x250/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/VWH-GettyImages-1390552603-f64732940f684d98a609e500adcffda5.jpg) Trazodone for Sleep and Insomnia](https://www.verywellhealth.com/trazodone-for-insomnia-3015244) [![A person holding a black strip over their mouth in a bright indoor setting]() ![A person holding a black strip over their mouth in a bright indoor setting](https://www.verywellhealth.com/thmb/dUmBbpCSb7eOGL2VFc-_ocbblV8=/400x250/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/VWH-GettyImages-2209392836-84246ba9d7c041d69551546f0d1f805f.jpg) Does Mouth Taping Help With Snoring?](https://www.verywellhealth.com/does-mouth-taping-help-with-snoring-11934713) [![Man sitting on edge of bed]() ![Man sitting on edge of bed](https://www.verywellhealth.com/thmb/quFJv_gGMICRGY1MFQrj7H9vh6c=/400x250/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/103058329-edit-56a884e13df78cf7729e841a.jpg) Sleep Aids for Insomnia](https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-to-take-when-you-cant-sleep-3015261) - [Health A-Z](https://www.verywellhealth.com/health-a-z-4014770) - [Prevention & Treatment](https://www.verywellhealth.com/prevention-and-treatment-4158390) - [Health Care](https://www.verywellhealth.com/health-care-4014769) - [News](https://www.verywellhealth.com/news-4846412) - [Meet Our Review Board](https://www.verywellhealth.com/meet-our-medical-expert-board-11762003) - [About Us](https://www.verywellhealth.com/about-us-5180305) - [Editorial Process](https://www.verywellhealth.com/verywell-editorial-process-4777042) - [Privacy Policy](https://www.people.inc/brands-privacy) - [In the News](https://www.verywellhealth.com/in-the-news-4778971) - [Advertise](https://www.people.inc/advertising) - [Terms of Service](https://www.people.inc/brands-termsofservice) - [Careers](https://www.people.inc/careers) - [Contact](https://www.verywellhealth.com/about-us-5180305#toc-contact-us) Follow Us Verywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Ⓒ 2026 People Inc. — All rights reserved Verywell Health is part of the [People Inc.](https://www.people.inc/) publishing family.

Readable Markdown

### Key Takeaways - Sleep myoclonus is a normal, brief twitch or jerk that happens when you are falling asleep or sleeping. - Medical treatment is only necessary if myoclonus disrupts sleep or daily life. Sleep myoclonus describes brief, involuntary muscle twitching or jerking that typically happens as you're drifting off to sleep. It's more common in childhood but can linger through adulthood. Most of the time, sleep myoclonus is perfectly normal and nothing to worry about, but it may require medical attention if it disrupts your sleep or quality of life. Verywell / Emily Roberts ## How to Recognize Sleep Myoclonus Sleep myoclonus symptoms, which are easy to notice, include twitching, jerking, shaking, spasms, or muscle contractions. These may happen once or multiple times, either as a single event or throughout the night, with or without a pattern. Common characteristics of these symptoms are that they are: - Brief - Involuntary - Localized to one part of the body or widespread - Shock-like - Sudden - Variable in intensity and frequency Sleep myoclonus generally happens during the early stages of sleep, often as you're falling asleep. External stimuli like noise, movement, or light can sometimes trigger it. ## Why Does Sleep Myoclonus Happen? Some known causes of sleep myoclonus are more likely to affect certain age groups. For instance, [Parkinson's](https://www.verywellhealth.com/parkinsons-disease-facts-5324573) disease, which typically appears after age 60, can be a cause. The exact cause of sleep myoclonus remains unclear, but researchers propose a few theories. A main theory involves sleep atonia, a natural process where your muscles are paralyzed as you enter deeper sleep stages. During sleep atonia, movement signals from the brain relax. Occasionally, this transition is not smooth, leading to electrical signals that cause muscle spasms. ### Adults Some types of myoclonus, such as sleep myoclonus and hiccups, occur in all age groups. Other forms result from conditions that mainly affect adults, or from medications more commonly used by them. In adults, myoclonus may be triggered by: - **Medications:** Some drugs, like opiates, antidepressants, antipsychotics, antiseizure medications (ASMs), and antibiotics, may cause myoclonus as a side effect. - **Stroke:** After a stroke that damages a nerve pathway in the brain, myoclonus can develop. - **Neurological disease:** Conditions such as [multiple sclerosis](https://www.verywellhealth.com/multiple-sclerosis-overview-4581925), Parkinson's disease, dementia with Lewy bodies, Alzheimer's disease, [celiac disease](https://www.verywellhealth.com/celiac-disease-symptoms-4014337), and epilepsy can cause myoclonus. - **Trauma:** Injuries to the brain, spinal cord, or nervous system that affect nerve pathways can trigger myoclonus. - **Metabolic disorders:** Conditions like liver or kidney disease may lead to myoclonus. - **Infection:** Nervous system infections, including herpes simplex virus and [Lyme disease](https://www.verywellhealth.com/lyme-disease-7151644), can cause myoclonus. - **Cancer:** Myoclonus is linked to cancers like leukemia, lymphoma, neuroblastoma, and lung, ovarian, or breast cancers. - **Unknown causes**: This type is often called essential myoclonus. When doctors identify the underlying issue, they can better determine if treatment is needed. ### What Is Restless Leg Syndrome? Restless leg syndrome is a disorder that causes a person to experience a strong, uncontrolled urge to move their legs. This feeling can go away soon afterward or immediately upon experiencing the urge, but there are minor differences in how it feels between people. It has been observed to occur with sleep myoclonus. ### Children In infants, benign (non-threatening) sleep myoclonus appears as repetitive twitches in the arms, legs, or torso during sleep. Although research on infant myoclonus is limited, it is generally considered harmless. Occasionally, a healthcare provider may perform an electroencephalography (EEG) test to distinguish it from epilepsy. Other causes of myoclonus in children can include: - **Fever or infection:** Abrupt episodes of myoclonus may occur after a child has a fever or infection, typically resolving on their own. - **Tumor:** Neoblastoma is the most common type of malignant tumor in children seven years and younger. Approximately 2% to 3% of children with neoblastoma develop opsoclonus–myoclonus syndrome (OMS), which causes loss of coordination, tremors (often in the hands), and an inability to walk or sit. - **Trauma:** A brain or spinal cord injury can also trigger myoclonus in children if it damages the nervous system. Brief episodes of myoclonus may begin immediately after the injury and often resolve abruptly on their own. ## What Are the Different Types of Myoclonus? There are two types of myoclonus: positive and negative myoclonus. Positive myoclonus happens when muscles abruptly contract. Negative myoclonus happens when muscles that are contracting suddenly stop. There are numerous forms of myoclonus, but some of them aren't sleep myoclonus: - **Action myoclonus** is triggered by a movement you make or an intention to move, typically affecting the arms, legs, and face. It can be caused by brain damage due to a lack of oxygen, or happen as a symptom of another underlying neurological condition. - **Cortical myoclonus**, whichis one of the most common forms of myoclonus, typically affects the upper limbs and face. Cortical myoclonus may be positive, negative, or both at the same time. - **Epileptic myoclonus** is common among people who live with epilepsy. It can happen as one component of a seizure, or on its own in the absence of a seizure. It typically happens in children with epilepsy. - **Essential myoclonus** is myoclonus which may be the primary symptom of an underlying illness, the only symptom of an underlying illness, or idiopathic (unrelated to illness). It tends to be chronic. - **Myoclonus-renal failure syndrome** is an extremely rare form of myoclonic epilepsy. Its symptoms may begin as early as age nine and progressively worsen, eventually leading to end-stage kidney failure. - **Palatal myoclonus** is slow, rhythmic muscle contractions that can happen while asleep or awake, typically affecting the eyes, face, tongue, larynx (voice box), and the intercostal muscles between the ribs. - **Peripheral myoclonus** rhythmic or sporadic jerking movements caused by a nerve injury or a lesion (i.e., a lipoma or other benign tumor) in a peripheral nerve, root nerves, or plexus nerves. - **Propriospinal myoclonus** originates in the spine and may involve the neck, waist, knees, and hips, but not the face. It typically occurs in a lying down position, sometimes during the transition between wakefulness and sleep. It is more common in middle-aged men, and may be related to spinal, trauma, tumor, or infection. - **Startle syndrome** is abrupt, rapid body jerking that happens when you are surprised by a sudden stimulus, such as a loud noise. It is normal and persists throughout life. - **Symptomatic myoclonus** is spawned by a variety of underlying medical conditions, including Parkinson's, infection, kidney failure, hyperthyroidism, and even vitamin E deficiency. ## How It's Diagnosed To find the cause of myoclonus, your healthcare provider will first consider: - Your age - Medications you’re taking - Recent falls, car accidents, or other injuries - Family history Your provider will ask you about the tremors or spasms you experience. They may ask which body part seems to be affected, how frequently the myoclonus occurs, and how long the episodes seem to last. They may also ask if you are experiencing any other new or unusual symptoms. Depending on this information, your provider may recommend one or more of the following tests: - [**Electroencephalogram (EEG)**](https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-an-eeg-test-and-what-is-it-used-for-3014879)**:** Small discs (electrodes) are placed on your scalp to track your brainwaves for patterns that can reveal where the myoclonus starts. - [**Electromyography (EMG)**](https://www.verywellhealth.com/electromyography-7152418)**:** Tiny needles through your skin and into your muscles to check the health of your muscles and the nerves that control them. - [**Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)**](https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-an-mri-and-what-does-it-do-3157069)**:** An MRI machine takes detailed images of your organs and tissues using magnetic fields and radio waves. MRIs do not involve radiation. - **Blood test:** Your provider may order a blood test to check for signs of increased immune system activity, which can point to infection and other illnesses. ## What Are the Treatment Options? Sleep myoclonus is not considered serious or in need of treatment unless it interferes with sleep and/or someone's quality of life. If it does, the condition may be treated with Xenazine (tetrabenazine), a drug often used to treat movement disorders such as [Huntington’s disease](https://www.verywellhealth.com/huntingtons-disease-11697734). In most cases, however, treatment is not necessary if sleep is relatively normal. Sleep myoclonus is widely referred to as a "benign" condition, meaning that it has no short- or long-term effects on the health or well-being of the affected individual. ## When to See a Healthcare Provider The occasional muscle jerk as you're drifting off to sleep is nothing to be concerned about. However, if the myoclonus is disrupting your sleep or happening while you are awake, see your healthcare provider for an evaluation. You should also see a healthcare provider if: - The myoclonus happens persistently or frequently or is increasing in frequency - The myoclonus interferes with eating, speaking, walking, or other activities - You are experiencing a new type of myoclonus - You have any other new or unusual symptoms, including [signs of infection](https://www.verywellhealth.com/infection-symptoms-5185799) or [signs of epilepsy](https://www.verywellhealth.com/risks-and-complications-of-seizures-4685790) Call 911 or go to the nearest urgent care if you if you experience any signs of epilepsy, including: - Changes in consciousness - Weakness - Visual auras, such as flashes of light or tunnel vision - Auditory (hearing) auras, such as ringing, buzzing, or distorted sounds - Somatosensory auras, like tingling or a feeling of moving despite being still - A metallic taste in your mouth - A sudden sense of impending doom 14 Sources Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our [editorial process](https://www.verywellhealth.com/verywell-editorial-process-4777042) to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. 1. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. [Myoclonus](https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/myoclonus). 2. National Institute on Aging. [Parkinson's disease: Causes, symptoms, and treatments](https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/parkinsons-disease). 3. SQ Online. [Hypnic jerks: The mysterious sensation of falling and spazzing awake](https://sqonline.ucsd.edu/2021/05/hypnic-jerks-the-mysterious-sensation-of-falling-and-spazzing-awake/). 4. Chanddarana M, Saraf U, Divya KP, Krishnan S, Kishore A. [Myoclonus- a review](https://doi.org/10.4103%2Faian.AIAN_1180_20). *Ann Indian Acad Neurol*. 2021 May;24(3):327-338. doi:10.4103/aian.AIAN\_1180\_20 5. Janssen S, Bloem B, van de Warrenburg B. [The clinical heterogeneity of of drug-induced myoclonus: an illustrated review](https://doi.org/10.1007%2Fs00415-016-8357-z). *J Neurol*. 2017;264(8):1559-1566. doi:10.1007/s00415-016-8357-z 6. Baylor Medicine. [Myoclonus](https://www.bcm.edu/healthcare/specialties/neurology/parkinsons-disease-and-movement-disorders/myoclonus). 7. Nichols J, Lee B, Chung K. [A case of paraneoplastic myoclonus attributed to non-small cell lung cancer](https://doi.org/10.5334%2Ftohm.42). *Tremor Other Hyperkinet Mov (NY)*. 2020 Jun;10(1):7. doi:10.5334/tohm.42 8. Mount Sinai. [Restless legs syndrome and related disorders](https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/report/restless-legs-syndrome-and-related-disorders). 9. Sleep Foundation. [Benign neonatal sleep myoclonus](https://www.sleepfoundation.org/baby-sleep/benign-neonatal-sleep-myoclonus). 10. Delucchi V, Pavlidis E, Piccolo B, Pisani F. [Febrile and postinfectious myoclonus: Case reports and review of the literature](https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0034-1395347). *Neuropediatrics*. 2015 Geb;46(1):26-32. doi:10.1055/s-0034-1395347 11. Xie S, Bai C, Li K, Dong K, Yao W. [Comparison of mediastinal and non-mediastinal neuroblastoma and ganglioneuroblastoma associated with opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome: a systematic review and meta analysis](https://doi.org/10.21037%2Ftcr-22-1120). *Transl Cancer Res*. 2022 Oct;11(10):3741-3753. doi:10.21037/tcr-22-1120 12. Facini C, Barsacchi M, Piccolo B, Turco E, Pisani F. [Early onset of propriospinal-like myoclonus in a child following a vertebral fracture](https://doi.org/10.1212/WNL.0000000000003053). *Neurology*. 2016 Aug;87(9):1-2. doi:10.1212/WNL.0000000000003053 13. Bhowmick S, Lang A. [Movement disorders and renal diseases](https://doi.org/10.1002/mdc3.13005). *Move Dis*. 2020 Oct;7(7):763-779. doi:10.1002/mdc3.13005 14. Johns Hopkins Medicine. [Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)](https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/magnetic-resonance-imaging-mri). ![Brandon Peters, M.D.](https://www.verywellhealth.com/thmb/BbtKTL7wVNFD-4Y2KIj4azA0HpE=/144x144/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/BrandonPetersMD_1000-5143e542c3084368b1220c4b86ede01c.png) By [Brandon Peters, MD](https://www.verywellhealth.com/brandon-peters-md-3014640) Dr. Peters is a board-certified neurologist and sleep medicine specialist and is a fellow of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback\! What is your feedback?

ML Classification

ML Categories

/Health		99.9%
/Health/Health_Conditions		97.9%
/Health/Health_Conditions/Neurological_Conditions		67.9%

Raw JSON

{
    "/Health": 999,
    "/Health/Health_Conditions": 979,
    "/Health/Health_Conditions/Neurological_Conditions": 679
}

ML Page Types

/Article		99.9%
/Article/Definitions		78.7%

Raw JSON

{
    "/Article": 999,
    "/Article/Definitions": 787
}

ML Intent Types

Informational

99.9%

Raw JSON

{
    "Informational": 999
}

Content Metadata

Language

Author

null

Publish Time

not set

Original Publish Time

2018-05-09 20:06:35 (7 years ago)

Republished

Word Count (Total)

2,346

Word Count (Content)

1,820

Links

External Links

Internal Links

Technical SEO

Meta Nofollow

Meta Noarchive

Yes

JS Rendered

Redirect Target

null

Performance

Download Time (ms)

177

TTFB (ms)

132

Download Size (bytes)

56,183

Shard

50 (laksa)

Root Hash

5681562863987870850

Unparsed URL

com,verywellhealth!www,/what-is-sleep-myoclonus-3014807 s443