Follow
Share

It doesn't wake him but it disturbs my sleep.

This question has been closed for answers. Ask a New Question.
Find Care & Housing
These are called myoclonic jerks, according to the American Sleep Association

"Myoclonus is a brief twitching of the muscles, and can occur separately or in groups, as well as in a sequence or at random. Myoclonus may be a sign of other nervous system disorders including Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis and epilepsy. Myoclonus is manifest by sudden jerks or contractions of the muscles, and also of the muscles uncontracting or relaxing after contraction."
Mention it to the doctor, but you might consider that medications to treat it may have side effects. Since it isn't bothering him could you learn to live with it?
Helpful Answer (1)
Report

Are these "jerks" just random movements, or do they perhaps seem like acting out a dream? My husband's "jerks" were like running or punching someone (often me). It sometimes woke him and sometimes didn't. It was a danger to any bed partner (me) and also a danger to himself, as he threw himself out of bed more than once.

Have you had this diagnosed by a neurologist or a sleep specialist? I don't know how long ago your husband was diagnosed with dementia or if you have been given a specific type of dementia diagnosis. The "acting out dreams" kind of disorder is closely associated with Lewy Body Dementia. As cwillie points out there are associations with sleeping behavior related to other nervous system disorders.

I highly recommend you have this followed up with a specialist (not necessarily a GP). It might provide some clues as to what else is going one.

BTW, my husband's sleep behavior was readily controlled by a small drug dose. Since it was a danger to me and to himself the risk of side effects was worth taking. (He had no side effects.)
Helpful Answer (0)
Report

This question has been closed for answers. Ask a New Question.
Ask a Question
Subscribe to
Our Newsletter