Sometimes it is mild, sometimes it is so strong that it wakes up one's sleep. Most people ignore it considering it as fatigue, but according to experts, it can also be a sign of some serious health problem. Dr. Ajit Kumar, sleep medicine expert at GTB Hospital, Delhi, says that if a person repeatedly feels jerks in his arms and legs during sleep, then it is not right to ignore it as mere sleep movements. This can also be an early sign of some major problem from the body.
Why do these shocks occur? According to Dr. Ajit Kumar, this problem usually occurs when the coordination between the brain and the nervous system gets disturbed. Such tremors can also be caused by lack of sleep, excessive caffeine intake, deficiency of electrolytes (such as magnesium, calcium or potassium). However, if this problem is occurring repeatedly, then some serious neurological diseases may also be hidden behind it.
Sleep Myoclonus or Restless Leg Syndrome? According to experts, the problem of shaking during sleep may be related to sleep myoclonus or restless legs syndrome (RLS). In sleep myoclonus, there is a sudden sharp jerk in any part of the body during sleep. In restless leg syndrome, there is a stretching, pricking or strong desire to move the legs, which affects sleep. If these symptoms are ignored, it can lead to conditions like Parkinson's disease, nerve damage, or even epilepsy.
Effect of medicines and diet In some cases, these tremors are also seen as a side effect of sleeping pills or antidepressants. At the same time, deficiency of essential minerals in the body (like magnesium, potassium) can also cause abnormal movement of muscles.
When to go to the doctor? If this problem is happening several times a week and is accompanied by symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, daytime sleepiness or inability to concentrate, then it is very important to consult a doctor. In such cases, tests like blood test, neurological exam and sleep study should be done.
