Affected Populations
Hyperekplexia is a rare genetic disorder that is most often present at birth and affects both males and females. In some individuals, onset of the disorder may be delayed until adolescence or adulthood. Hyperekplexia affects approximately one in 40,000 people in the United States.
Do adults have startle reflex?
A startle response is normally seen in children and adults in response to sudden, unexpected stimuli.
Why do some people have a high startle response?
If someone is stressed, or upset, it tends to increase the startle response. There's also a connection to anxiety. For anxious people, a higher startle response tends to be part of the personality profile.
