Jitteriness in newborns

Jitteriness (Jitteriness) in newborns: What does it mean?

Jitteriness, also called jitter, is a condition very similar to tremor, but it often has a higher amplitude and can be associated not only with immaturity of the nervous system but also with metabolic causes. It is also, in most cases, a benign condition that resolves on its own. However, sometimes it may indicate problems that require correction.

Causes of jitteriness

In addition to general nervous system immaturity, jitteriness can be provoked by:

• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). This is one of the most common causes. Glucose is the main "fuel" for the brain and nervous system. Its deficiency can cause trembling. The risk of hypoglycemia is higher in children born to mothers with diabetes, in preterm or low‑birth‑weight infants.
• Low calcium level (hypocalcemia). Calcium plays an important role in the transmission of nerve impulses.
• Withdrawal from certain substances. If the mother during pregnancy used antidepressants, narcotic substances, or smoked heavily, the child may experience a withdrawal syndrome, one of whose manifestations is jitteriness.

What should parents do?

The first and simplest step when jitteriness appears is to feed the baby. If the cause was mild hypoglycemia, the intake of milk quickly stabilizes the sugar level, and the jitteriness will cease. Using the same methods as for tremor—soothing, swaddling—will also be effective.

It is important to distinguish jitteriness from seizures. The rule remains the same: if the movements can be stopped by gently taking the limb in hand, they are not seizures. However, if the jitteriness is very strong, does not stop after feeding, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms (for example, lethargy), the pediatrician should be notified.