misdiagnosed?

[rms000]

My mom was diagnosed with ALS last week. We are all devastated with the diagnosis and going for a second opinion at the ALS center next month. Today I spoke with my mom on the phone and even though her speech is still alittle slurred and difficult, she told me she was not having difficulty swallowing her liquids. Her speech problem started May of last year. My question is: could this be a misdiagnosis even with an abnormal emg? Wishful thinking?

 

[Katie C]

It's always possible you'll get a different response from the 2nd opinion doc... but honestly, I wouldn't hold my breath if the emg showed problems.

 

[BarryG]

Sorry about your mom, it sounds like slow progression to me. I think I was about a year between the start of slurring to choking on liquids. Good luck with the second opinion, I hope you get better news.

 

[TedH5]

No matter what you should get a second opinion. The abnormal EMG is quite telling and indicative of ALS especially if she has had clean MRI's. I too wish you luck, you never know but do not get you hopes too high. Please keep in mind their is life after diagnosis and you and your Mom should appreciate each day and live life to it's fullest!

 

[rms000]

Thank you. Your input really helps

 

[smwelder]

Also rember a DX comes after ruling out every thing else. Best of luck to you and your mom

 

[Chase_Corin]

I know my family was hopeing and praying it was Lyme disease but after seeing several specialists it's been confirmed as ALS.

Lyme disease does look alot like ALS but you can get a blood test to rule it out.

 

[rms000]

My mother has type 2 diabetes for the past 20yrs. would diabetic neuropathy symptoms be confused for ALS symptoms?

 

[notme]

HI

I'm not expert--but I've had diabetic neuropathy for 20+ years. I've never heard of it causing slurred speech, certainly. It can affect vision, internal organs--lots of things.

With my diabetic neuropathy--I have a lot of pain--and diabetic neuropathy also usually starts in distal regions--feet/hands

But--certainly your mom needs a second opinion--many other things need ruled out. Glad she's getting to an ALS clinic. That's where I'd want my mother