Have you experienced this? - Hypnic Jerk

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There is something new I learned this morning. It is about the hypnic jerk. Have you heard about this before? Even if you din't you may have experienced it at least once in your lifetime. Curious? Read on. When people are falling asleep or almost sleep they experience a feeling as if they are startled or falling down. It causes people to experience rapid heart beat, shock, sweating etc. It is apparently caused by irregular sleep patterns, anxiety, having caffeinated drinks or alcohol a few hours before sleep time, stress and strenuous activities closer to sleep time. Sometimes it could be just a random experience. It occurs during the non REM sleep or deep sleep state. It is said to be more frequent and common among children in the age group of 8-12. Hypnic jerks are less common among older people in the age group of 60-85. Researchers say that there is nothing to worry, it is a normal action of the body. However if you want to avoid it altogether reduce your intake of alcohol, caffeinated drinks and relax more in the evenings. Avoid going to the gym or strenuous activity after dinner. Have you heard of the hypnic jerk before? If yes, do you have more information to share. Did you learn something new today (maybe other than this) that you would like to share?