Sleep Starts

What are Night Starts?

Sleep starts, also known as night starts or hypnic jerks, are a phenomenon that occurs as a person falls asleep, somewhere between wakefulness and sleep. The condition causes the person to experience an involuntary muscle contraction, known as a myoclonic twitch, which may involve a sensation of falling followed by a physical jerk back into wakefulness. Typically, these episodes occur during the lightest stage of sleep.

What Causes Sleep Starts?

There is no clear cause for sleep starts, as no one fully understands the occurrence. Sleep starts are of limited nature and do not represent a serious medical problem, and are thus not typically treated. There are other conditions, however, with similar yet slightly different symptoms that may need further evaluation and treatment. These conditions include restless legs syndrome, periodic limb movement disorder, nocturnal myoclonus and nocturnal leg cramps.

Sleep Start Treatment

Sleep starts may decrease in frequency by avoiding caffeine, according to some experts. Although generally harmless, sleep starts can become especially severe, which can be both distressing and frightening. In these extreme cases, a doctor may prescribe diazepam to be taken at bedtime.

Disclaimer: These statements and products are not intended to diagnose, treat and cure or prevent disease. Always consult your physician regarding any sleeping disorders.