Sleep jerking

[mjanssens2]

My 31 year old son is epileptic, but no seizures for 13 years.  Several months ago he began having weird sensations on the point of sleep, and his shoulders, back and back of legs shudder, or jerk.
This wakes him every time he starts to sleep.  Doctor tried adjusting his seizures meds, but did not help.  He is temporarily on a sedative at bedtime, but still gets the jerks.  He also sometimes hears a loud noise as he is falling asleep.  If he has an afternoon nap, he has no problems.  What could this be?

[Suri123]

Hi, hope your son is doing well. How about your plans to take him to your doctor. He needs to get an evaluation rather than continue with symptoms. It is good to see so many views posted. keep updating your thoughts. Take care.

[Markwain]

I have had sleep jerks for two months - very violent no sleep at all.  I am currently on clonazepam (klonopin) which control them enough to allow me to get some sleep.
Good luck

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,
Well he should then try to de stress using breathing exercises, yoga, listening to music etc.
Also try to ask him to sleep well at night and not get into bed worrying about work.
If the symptoms still persist do consult his neurologist.
Good luck.

[mjanssens2]

Thank you for your answer.  He is already on 2000 mg a day of sodium valproate, plus 400 mg of carbamazipine.  Unfortunately, his work schedule (four 10 hour shifts per week) does not allow naps during the week, but may try weekend naps.

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,
The cause of these jerking movements could be anything from stress, anxiety, juvenile myoclonic epilepsy to fatigue. These are the most common causes in such cases.
In your son's case, any of the above could be tha cause.
What is he taking for his epilepsy currently?
It would be best to discuss with his doctor and start him on sodium valproate as that causes relief in the symptoms of juvenile myoclonic epilepsy.
As you mention, that an afternoon nap , also causes relief of symptoms then stress, fatigue could be the cause in his case.
He should take daily short afternoon naps, sleep well and try some breathing exercises and yoga.
If the symptoms still persist, it would be advisable to consult a neurologist.
Hope this helps.
Good luck.