Palatal Myoclonus: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Palatal Myoclonus?
A neurologist, a doctor who treats the brain and nerves, is the main specialist for palatal myoclonus. An ENT doctor, who treats ear, nose, and throat problems, may also help because the condition can cause clicking in the ear. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What is palatal myoclonus?
Palatal myoclonus is a fast spasm, or tightening, of the muscles in the roof of the mouth. It is also called palatal tremor. Myoclonus is the word for sudden, brief twitching, jerking, or spasm of one muscle or a group of muscles. A person cannot control it. Myoclonus is not a disease itself, but it may be a sign of another neurological condition, which means a problem with the brain or nerves.
The spasms are regular and rhythmic. They happen on one or both sides of the back of the roof of the mouth, called the soft palate. They are fast and may continue during sleep. The condition usually appears in adults and sometimes does not go away.
Symptoms
Symptoms include:
- Clicking in the ear.
- Popping in the ear.
- Fluttering sounds in the ear, with normal hearing.
People may notice the clicking sound when the muscles in the soft palate tighten.
Causes and who gets it
Palatal myoclonus is most often due to damage to brain nerve pathways. Stroke is the most common cause. The problem most often develops about a year after the stroke.
Other conditions can also lead to it. These include multiple sclerosis, which is a disease that damages nerves, as well as trauma and tumor.
How doctors diagnose it
For myoclonus in general, a doctor reviews your medical history and does a physical exam. The doctor may then order tests to confirm it or to look for a cause.
- Electromyography (EMG), which measures electrical activity of muscle.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which makes images of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves.
- Urine or blood tests to look for causes or rule out other conditions.
Treatment
There are no medicines designed to treat myoclonus itself. Medicines that calm an overactive nervous system are generally used to relieve symptoms. Treating other conditions a person has can sometimes relieve or control the symptoms too.
Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections can reduce extra muscle activity. They have worked for some people with palatal myoclonus. Surgery may be an option if the symptoms come from a tumor or lesion in the brain or spinal cord.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if you notice clicking, popping, or fluttering sounds in your ear. Tell your provider if myoclonus starts after you begin a new medicine.
Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have sudden weakness, a sudden change in vision, inability to speak, confusion, or fainting.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Either can review your symptoms, check your medicines, arrange tests, and coordinate care with a neurologist or ENT doctor.
Common questions
Is palatal myoclonus the same as palatal tremor?
Yes, palatal tremor is another name for palatal myoclonus. Both names describe fast, rhythmic tightening of the soft palate.
What causes palatal myoclonus?
It is most often due to damage to brain nerve pathways. Stroke is the most common cause, and multiple sclerosis, trauma, or a tumor can also lead to it.
Does palatal myoclonus go away?
Not always. The condition sometimes does not go away. It usually appears in adults, and the spasms may continue during sleep.
Why does palatal myoclonus cause clicking in the ear?
People may notice a clicking sound in the ear when the muscles in the soft palate tighten.
Can botulinum toxin help palatal myoclonus?
It has helped some people. Botulinum toxin injections can reduce extra muscle activity by blocking muscle tightening.
Sources
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
