Isaacs’ syndrome

Neuromyotonia, Isaacs-Mertens syndrome

What is Isaacs’ syndrome?

Isaacs’ syndrome, or neuromyotonia, is a rare neuromuscular disorder.

It involves nerve overactivity that results in involuntary muscle contractions and stiffness.

It can affect both men and women, usually in adulthood.

What causes Isaacs’ syndrome?

Isaacs’ syndrome is often caused by an autoimmune response, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy nerve cells and affects their function. This leads to continuous muscle activity.

Rarely, Isaacs’ syndrome may be linked to hereditary factors or other autoimmune conditions.

What are the symptoms of Isaacs’ syndrome?

Symptoms of Isaacs’ syndrome usually begin between the ages of 15 and 60. They often become more noticeable or severe over time.

The symptoms of Isaacs’ syndrome include:

  • Muscle twitching
  • Progressive muscle stiffness, cramping and weakness
  • Delayed muscle relaxation
  • Excessive sweating
  • Fatigue and insomnia

Are you affected by Isaacs' syndrome

If you’re affected by Isaacs’ syndrome, The Brain Charity can support you.

We are the only charity in the UK to be here for every one of the more than 600 different neurological conditions in existence. Individually, many are rare, but combined, they affect 1 in 6 people.

We provide practical help on all aspects of living with Isaacs’ syndrome, emotional support such as counselling and group therapy and social activities to people with Isaacs’ syndrome from all over the UK from our centre in Liverpool.

Looking to talk to someone?

Woman smiling, making eye contact and holding the hand of another woman to comfort her

Phone us

Contact The Brain Charity now

Our friendly Information & Advice Officers are here to help.

0151 298 2999

Looking to talk to someone?

  • Please tell us which neurological condition you are affected by and what you need support with.

Caring for someone affected by Isaacs' syndrome

We support carers, friends and family too.

Are you a carer for or relative of someone with Isaacs’ syndrome? It’s just as important for you to look after your own physical and mental wellbeing too.

The Brain Charity provides free support for carers, friends and family of people with any form of neurological condition, including Isaacs’ syndrome, from anywhere in the UK.

We also run an additional carer advocacy service for all carers in Liverpool, regardless of which type of condition the person they care for has.

You don’t need to be a formal or registered carer

We can help you even if you don’t view yourself as a formal carer or claim Carer’s Allowance. Find out some of the ways we support carers below.

Other resources

Support groups

Support groups at The Brain Charity

Are you interested in setting up an Isaacs’ syndrome support group, or do you already run one?

Email info@thebraincharity.org.uk to let us know.

Other charities

Pathfinders Neuromuscular Alliance