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What Causes Muscle Twitching While Lying Down?
Question: Hi. I am a 54 year old female, Naturopathic Physician and athlete. For several years I have been experiencing twitching and drawing sensations in the muscle layers. These seem to occur when I am laying down to sleep. They only occur in my lower legs. I am 5' 3" and weigh 130. Labs are normal, except for a diagnosis of chronic and persistent hypnic jerks which occur when I try to sleep. Sometimes these present with vocalizations. I am unable to sleep at all due to these manifestations, so use ambien at night. I also occasionally have little seizures as I try to fall asleep . These bring me back to full consciousness frequently throughout the night.
Just to correct, I have begun to notice the spasm occurring in the back and abdomen as well. No history of kidney or heart disease, no accidents or injuries to the head or spine. The symptoms are worse at night when I am still.
Just to correct, I have begun to notice the spasm occurring in the back and abdomen as well. No history of kidney or heart disease, no accidents or injuries to the head or spine. The symptoms are worse at night when I am still.
Brief Answer:
Cause of your concerns should be assessed further.
Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for using HCM.
I have read your query and understand your concerns.
Muscles twitching could be related to several conditions, some of them benign ( electrolytes dysbalance, low blood levels of B group vitamins etc.), some of them serious neuromuscular diseases or thyroid and kidneys dysfunction.
Assessing the blood levels of electrolytes and vitamin B12 together with the thyroid and kidneys function tests, should be the first step in diagnosis of your condition.
EMG ( nerve conduction study ) and sleep study also are useful examinations in your case that may help in concluding a correct diagnosis.
The treatment possibilities depend upon the diagnosis.
These issues should be discussed with your primary care Doctor.
Hope I've been of help.
Let me know if I can assist you further.
Take care.
Cause of your concerns should be assessed further.
Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for using HCM.
I have read your query and understand your concerns.
Muscles twitching could be related to several conditions, some of them benign ( electrolytes dysbalance, low blood levels of B group vitamins etc.), some of them serious neuromuscular diseases or thyroid and kidneys dysfunction.
Assessing the blood levels of electrolytes and vitamin B12 together with the thyroid and kidneys function tests, should be the first step in diagnosis of your condition.
EMG ( nerve conduction study ) and sleep study also are useful examinations in your case that may help in concluding a correct diagnosis.
The treatment possibilities depend upon the diagnosis.
These issues should be discussed with your primary care Doctor.
Hope I've been of help.
Let me know if I can assist you further.
Take care.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj
Answered by
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