A member asked:

I experienced a hypnic jerk while i was awake sitting in a theatre. is this normal? i do have anxiety, maybe that's why?

4 doctors weighed in across 2 answers

A hypnic jerk: Or myoclonic jerk or involuntary twitch is normal. It could be related to anxiety but is not significant in & of itself unless chronic or frequent.

Answered 2/19/2017

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Dr. Hanul Bhandari answered

Specializes in Internal Medicine - Sleep Medicine

Hypnic Jerk: It is common in the population to experience a hypnic jerk once in a while. It occurs while falling asleep (a boring movie?). Fatigue, poor sleep, ; anxiety are linked to it. Sleep 7.5 to 8 hrs a night. Avoid caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, ; electronics near bedtime. If you experience them often, it may point to a sleep disorder ; a visit to a sleep doctor may help.

Answered 3/2/2016

4.2k views

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