Doctor Explains Why Your Body Jolts When Falling Asleep
NHS doctor, Dr Sooj Kukadia, has taken to social media to shed light on why some individuals experience “night time glitches and hypnic jerks” when trying to drift off to sleep. Falling asleep can be challenging, especially when one’s own body seems to be working against them. For many, the struggle lies in calming a restless mind before bedtime, while others are troubled by sudden spasms that disrupt their sleep efforts.
Dr Kukadia shared his insights on TikTok, explaining that these jolts, known as hypnic or hypnagogic jerks, are involuntary sudden jumping sensations that occur as one transitions from wakefulness to sleep. The doctor mentioned that one theory suggests the brain gets confused during this transition as muscles relax, leading it to think that the body is falling, prompting the muscle twitching response. These jerks are often noticed when individuals wake up due to these sudden movements.
Factors such as stress, anxiety, fatigue, lack of sleep, nicotine, caffeine, and excessive exercise before bedtime can trigger these jolts. Dr Kukadia advised seeking medical advice if these episodes persist or occur while awake. Viewers of his video shared their own experiences, with some attributing the jolts to the brain perceiving a threat or confusion between dreams and reality.
Overall, understanding why these body jolts occur can provide reassurance to those who experience them and help them take steps to improve their sleep quality.
Insights and Summary:
Dr Sooj Kukadia’s explanation of why the body jerks when falling asleep sheds light on a common phenomenon that many people experience. By delving into the potential causes of these hypnic jerks, individuals can gain a better understanding of their bodies’ responses during the sleep-wake transition. This information can empower individuals to make lifestyle changes or seek medical advice if needed to improve their sleep hygiene and overall well-being.