DS 3 leg violently shaking

[mogulfield]

My son was asleep in the back of the car and his leg suddenly started shaking (for 15 seconds or so until we woke him realising this wasn't just a dream). He's since repeated this 3 times (all episodes whilst asleep).
It's not just a jerky movement (the one you get before you fall asleep) but it's prolonged and consistent.
It looks distressing but is just in one leg.
Any idea what this is before we give 111 a call?
He's had 2 febrile convulsions in his life if that's relevant.

It's probably a hypnic jerk (what you described above). I am very prone to them and have had man people complain to be about them after sharing a bed over the years. I thought that they were being overly dramatic until I once had one that was very violent, protracted and all over my body. Needless to say I woke myself up and have since stopped rolling my eyes when people point it out.

That's reassuring ttbb they do look bad which is why I was concerned! He seems well in himself otherwise.

DH has episodes like this in bed whilst asleep.

It's usually one leg but occasionally an arm.

It's odd yes and is annoying and wakes me up but he seems to semi-wake, it stops then he goes right back to sleep leaving me awake and grumpy.

It's not restless legs (I had those - bloody awful, esp whilst pregnant) it's more like mini spasms in the muscles that can last a few seconds or a few minutes.

He's had them since he was a toddler according to MIL.

I doubt there is any need to be concerned, but tbh I'd pop to the GP and mention it.

NHS Direct have sent us to a and e! I called them just because if it was serious I'd never forgive myself (expecting them to humour me and then tell me he's fine), but Dr seemed concerned on the phone.
He seems fine now, just waiting on the Doc.

You've done the right thing.

I'm sure it will be ok, but better to get it checked out :-)

Another one that thinks you've done the right thing.

Better to get these things checked out.

I'm really glad you've been sent to a&e, I would have strongly urged you to get him seen. I would push for an MRI or CT.

I'll keep my fingers crossed it's what the posters above mentioned.

Any news op? Hope he's ok.

How is he OP?

Hope you are all ok and being looked after, it could be a type of mild seizure which is why you are at A and E. ....sometimes also known as Jacksonian marches/ seizures.