Why does the body shock while sleepingImage Credit Source: Getty Images
Hypnic jerks during sleep: Have you ever felt as if someone is suddenly pulling you down or you are falling from height? Along with this, there is also a strong shock in the body, which opens sleep. It is called Hypnic Jerk or Sleep Start in medical language. This is a common neurological reaction that can be part of the process of entering the body’s sleep. According to research, about 60-70% of people have this experience once or more times in life.
Dr. Daljit Singh in Neurosurgery Department in Max Saket It is said that when we enter the deep state of sleep from the awake state, then the muscles of the body are slowly relaxed. Sometimes the brain incorrectly recognizes this relaxation as a sign of ‘falling’ or ‘serious danger’ and sends a blow to give immediate response from which we wake up. This is called Hypnic Jerk. This condition is usually harmless, but in some cases it can be repeated or very fast, which hinders sleep and the next day can pass tired.
Possible reasons for a shock in sleep
Fatigue and lack of sleep: Due to continuous work and not getting proper sleep, the brain becomes more active and the body has difficulty in sleeping.
Excess intake of caffeine or nicotine: These elements stimulate the veins of the brain and disturb the sleeping cycle.
Stress and anxiety: Mental stress increases the activity of the brain, which makes it difficult to relax and can feel a shock.
Watching screen for a long time: The blue light coming out of mobile, laptop or TV presses melatonin hormone, which causes sleep quality.
Overcity of nervous system: In some people, neurological system is more sensitive than normal, due to which such shocks come again and again.
Is this a sign of a serious illness?
In most cases, sleep shock is normal and harmless, but if this blow comes every night, affects the quality of sleep badly, or with it, signs like breathlessness, heartbeat, nervousness or sweating are also seen – it can be serious signs. Such symptoms can be part of sleep related problems like Restless Leg Syndrome, Sleep APNEA or NOCTURNAL Seizures. Therefore, if the shock comes again and again and starts affecting the activity or mental state of the day, then it is necessary to consult a doctor.
How to avoid sleep shock?
To avoid sleepy shock, regularity of sleep is first necessary. Make a habit of sleeping and getting up at a fixed time every day. Avoid caffeine, alcohol and heavy food two hours before bedtime, as they can stimulate the brain. Reduce the habit of watching the screen late at night and read a book instead or listen to relaxed music. Practice or meditation of deep breath before sleeping so that the brain can calm down. The most important thing is that you get a good sleep of at least 7 to 8 hours daily, so that both the body and the mind can rest properly.