Gina Johnson
Newborns can often exhibit twitching, jittering, or shivering while sleeping. While this may be alarming to new parents, it is usually harmless and caused by the developing nervous system of the baby. This phenomenon is known as benign sleep myoclonus and is distinct from seizures, which involve muscle jerking and blinking but no crying. Newborns also experience periodic breathing due to immature chemical sensors that detect carbon dioxide, causing momentary pauses in breathing. While these symptoms are generally benign, parents should monitor their newborns closely, especially if they have had a difficult birth, and consult a doctor if concerned.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Jerky movements | Normal, due to the baby's developing nervous system |
| Intermittent breathing | Common, due to undeveloped chemical sensors that detect carbon dioxide |
| Nasal congestion | Caused by the hormone estrogen, passed to the baby in utero and while breastfeeding or chestfeeding |
| Shivering | Could be a sign of low blood sugar or benign sleep myoclonus, a harmless condition |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Newborns can't regulate temperature, so shivering isn't due to cold
It is normal for newborns to twitch and make unusual movements during sleep, especially in the early newborn days. These twitches are believed to contribute to the baby's motor skills development and are linked to sensorimotor development. While it may be alarming for new parents to witness, these twitches are typically a normal part of a baby's development.
However, it is important to distinguish between twitching and shivering. While twitching is common and usually harmless, shivering in newborns can be a cause for concern. Newborns have poor temperature regulation due to their undeveloped nervous systems, so they may shiver if they are cold. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that newborns are appropriately dressed and swaddled to maintain a comfortable body temperature.
That being said, there are other possible explanations for newborn shivering that are not related to temperature. One possibility is benign neonatal sleep myoclonus, a condition characterized by myoclonic jerks or twitches during sleep. These movements can appear dramatic, but they are generally considered harmless and stop immediately upon waking. However, without measuring brain waves, it can be challenging to differentiate between benign neonatal sleep myoclonus and epilepsy.
Another potential explanation for newborn shivering could be low glucose levels, as mentioned by a parent on Reddit. In this case, the baby's glucose levels were stabilized with glucose gel, and the shivering stopped.
In conclusion, while newborn shivering may be due to temperature regulation issues, it is important to consider other potential causes and seek medical advice if concerned, especially if the shivering persists or is accompanied by other symptoms.
The Quieter Side of Newborn Sleep: A Guide for Parents
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Shivering can be a symptom of benign sleep myoclonus
Shivering in newborns can be a cause for concern for new parents. While it is generally harmless, it can sometimes be a symptom of benign sleep myoclonus. Benign neonatal sleep myoclonus is a rare sleep-related movement disorder that occurs in very young infants. It is characterised by rhythmic myoclonic jerks or twitches that occur multiple times while the infant is sleeping. These involuntary muscle jerks most often occur in the arms, legs, or core, and less commonly, in the face. On some occasions, they may involve the whole body.
The defining feature of benign sleep myoclonus is that the movements resolve upon waking and only occur during sleep. The condition is generally harmless and is not indicative of serious neurological injuries or abnormalities. It is typically reported in otherwise healthy newborns without signs of neurological compromise. The myoclonic activity can be stimulus-sensitive, with more prominent activity in response to loud sounds, touch, or attempts at passive restraint. In some cases, repetitive noises or rocking may also trigger the jerks.
While benign sleep myoclonus is usually a harmless condition, it is often mistaken for seizures or epilepsy due to the similarity in the appearance of myoclonic movements. However, brain waves in benign sleep myoclonus do not resemble those of seizures or epilepsy. In fact, researchers have found that the condition resolves without any residual effects, and most children develop normally without any further episodes.
If you notice shivering or jerky movements in your newborn while sleeping, it is always best to consult a healthcare professional. They will be able to assess the situation, provide reassurance, and recommend any necessary further steps or treatments.
Newborn Sleep Jerks: What's Normal and What's Not?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Infant shudder syndrome can cause rapid shivering
It is not uncommon for newborns to exhibit jerky movements or shivers while sleeping. In most cases, this is perfectly normal and is not a cause for concern. However, in some instances, it could be indicative of a condition known as Infant Shudder Syndrome.
Infant Shudder Syndrome, or ISS, is characterised by rapid shivering in the upper chest, shoulders, neck, and head. Babies with ISS may experience these symptoms several times a day, with some infants suffering up to 100 shuddering attacks per day. While each attack typically lasts only a few seconds, it can be a distressing experience for parents.
ISS is a benign phenomenon, and most doctors believe it is not indicative of a serious condition. However, it can be challenging to determine the exact cause of ISS, and some infants may require further evaluation to rule out other potential health concerns. In rare cases, ISS may be a symptom of an underlying condition, such as seizures or cerebral palsy, especially if the infant experienced a difficult birth.
If you notice your newborn exhibiting rapid shivering or jerky movements, it is essential to closely monitor them and consult your paediatrician. A neurological exam can help determine if there are any significant health issues that require treatment. While ISS typically resolves on its own within a few months or years, early diagnosis and intervention are crucial to address any potential underlying causes and ensure your baby's well-being.
Additionally, it is important to note that shivering or jerky movements during sleep could also be a result of low glucose levels in newborns, as mentioned in one of the sources.
Newborn Sleep: What to Expect and How to Cope
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Shivering may be due to low blood sugar or adrenaline
Shivering in newborns can be caused by various factors, and while it may be a harmless newborn reflex, it is important to be vigilant and seek medical advice if you are concerned.
Shivering in newborns is often attributed to benign sleep myoclonus, a harmless phenomenon that is no more dangerous than hiccups. It is caused by the infant's developing nervous system and is characterised by jerky movements and twitches during sleep. This condition usually resolves on its own, and healthcare providers may advise parents to record these episodes to aid in diagnosis.
However, shivering can also be an indication of low blood sugar levels in newborns. In such cases, medical intervention may be necessary to stabilise glucose levels, as seen in a newborn who exhibited jittery movements due to low glucose and was treated with glucose gel.
Additionally, adrenaline surges in infants can trigger shuddering spells. To alleviate this, parents can try calming techniques to lower their infant's heart rate and remove them from stressful situations.
While shivering in newborns can be unnerving for parents, it is often a benign occurrence. However, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare provider if you have any concerns about your newborn's health or observe other symptoms accompanying the shivering.
Sleep Training for Newborns: When to Start?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
![Shivers [Blu-ray +Digital]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81B-MeJ4BgL._AC_UY218_.jpg)
Shivering is normal, but persistent shivering may indicate illness
Shivering in newborns is often harmless and normal. Newborns may shiver due to benign sleep myoclonus, a harmless phenomenon caused by the developing nervous system of the baby. It is no more dangerous than hiccups. Newborns may also shiver due to low blood sugar levels or adrenaline surges. In such cases, feeding the baby can help.
However, persistent shivering may indicate an illness or brain disorder. For instance, cerebral palsy caused by oxygen deprivation during or after birth can cause shivering. Infantile spasms, or infant shudder syndrome, can cause shuddering attacks up to 100 times a day, increasing the risk of developing seizures, cognitive delays, or autism.
If you are concerned about your baby's shivering, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider. Taking a video of the shivering to show to the doctor can be helpful.
It is also important to note that newborns are susceptible to colds and nasal congestion. While this is usually caused by hormones, it can sometimes be a sign of an underlying condition such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Therefore, if your baby shows signs of respiratory distress or a high fever along with nasal congestion, seek emergency care.
Sleep Solutions for Newborn Noises
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
It is normal for newborns to twitch or jerk in their sleep. This is a harmless phenomenon called benign sleep myoclonus. However, if you are concerned about your baby's shivering, you should speak to a healthcare professional.
Benign sleep myoclonus is a condition where a newborn experiences jerky movements in their sleep. It is a harmless condition that the baby will grow out of. It is caused by the infant's developing nervous system and is no more dangerous than hiccups.
The signs of benign sleep myoclonus include twitching, jerking, or shaking of the arms and legs. It may look like the baby is playing the drums with their limbs. The condition can also cause the baby's upper chest, shoulders, neck, and head to rapidly shiver.
If you are concerned about your newborn's shivering, you should speak to a healthcare professional. You can also try to calm your baby by feeding them or reducing their stress levels. Make sure to keep your baby warm and monitor their blood sugar levels.
