Myoclonic
Myoclonic
Myoclonic (pronunciation: /maɪ.əˈklɒn.ɪk/) is a term that originates from the Greek words "myo" meaning "muscle" and "clonus" meaning "violent, irregular motion". It refers to a type of involuntary muscle movement, similar to a twitch or jerk.
Description
Myoclonus is a medical condition characterized by these brief, involuntary twitching of a muscle or group of muscles. It can occur in healthy individuals, often when falling asleep (hypnic jerk), or can be a symptom of a neurological disorder.
Types of Myoclonus
There are several types of myoclonus, including:
- Stimulus-sensitive myoclonus: This type of myoclonus is triggered by a variety of external events, including noise, movement, and light.
- Sleep myoclonus: This occurs during the initial phases of sleep, especially at the moment of dropping off to sleep.
- Action myoclonus: This is characterized by muscular jerking triggered or intensified by voluntary movement or even the intention to move.
Causes
Myoclonus can be caused by a wide variety of conditions, including brain damage, genetic disorders, spinal cord injury, stroke, and metabolic conditions. It can also be a side effect of certain medications.
Treatment
Treatment for myoclonus involves addressing the underlying cause, if known. Medications, such as anticonvulsants and tranquilizers, may be used to manage symptoms. In some cases, physical therapy may also be beneficial.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Myoclonic
- Wikipedia's article - Myoclonic
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