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Neurology (Expert Forum)
Body Jerking
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Body Jerking
by Mike__0__0, Jul 01, 1998 12:00AM
Occasionally, I have noticed that I will have a momentary quick body jerk, that will last about 1 second almost like someone said "boo" and you jump. This will happen will either I'm resting or am startled. This has never happenend before. I have experienced tingling in my feet, have a constant headache. Is this an indication of neurological damage? I've been to 3 neurologists, currently on zoloft and have had the whole gamut of tests. About a month ago I wrote to you about short circuiting in my head (also a momentary feeling). Ok, Doc give me your best dx! Have a great 4th!!!! And again, many thanks.
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There may not be anything wrong.
One phenomenon which has been described in normal individuals is "hypnogogic myoclonus" which is a jerking (often whole-body) that occurs as a person is drifting off to sleep.
Sometimes people get exaggerated startle responses, which fits the description you give. There is such a thing as startle disease (hyperekplexia) but it is very rare and it doesn't fit your description.
Baseline behavioral states (for example, heightened awareness, vigilance, anxiety) can adjust the body's set point for startle responses.
None of these matches the feet tingling or constant headache. Those probably reflect some other disorder (chronic tension headache, for example). If you are depressed (Zoloft), many symptoms such as these may come and go and be explained by the mood disorder. Don't underestimate depression in terms of the wide variety of symptoms that one can have.
I hope this helps. As you know, this information is provided for your medical education. Specific comments regarding your diagnosis, treatment options, and prognosis must come from your doctor after appropriate evaluation. CCF MD mdf.
