What is "Myoclonus"?

QUESTION: My grandson has a problem diagnosed as "myoclonus". I've never
heard of it before and we are troubled for lack of knowledge about this
condition. Can you enlighten us?
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ANSWER: Sometimes just knowing what a word means can help, and since that is
all the information you have given me, I will at least provide that. The
Greeks get credit for this one as "myo" means "muscle" and "clonus" comes from
the Greek word for "turmoil". Myoclonus means a brief, shock-like contraction
of a muscle or group of muscles. It may be a normal event, and happens in
many individuals as they are falling asleep. It may also be seen in epilepsy,
and certain slow virus infections like Alzheimer's Disease. Some individuals
develop this symptom after sustaining a head injury, while the cause in others
lies with an imbalance in the body's metabolism. The treatment will depend
upon the cause, and may include the use of medications called anticonvulsants.
I suspect your children may know a bit more about the causes in your
grandchild. Since this is causing you anxiety and anguish, why not give them
a call, and ask for the real lowdown.
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.