Nervous I have ALS

[mc2484]

Hi Guys,

About 3 years ago I developed some left leg cramping along with widespread twitching. I went to GP who referred me to a Neurologist. I had 2 EMG'S done (not neuro muscular specialists) and was diagnosed with BFS.

Fast forward to January of this year. I started developing left hand cramp which is slowly getting worse along with dexterity issues. I am still twitching but its no more focal - right tricep area, worse after I stretch. Twitches in tricep last 30 seconds or so then stop. They come and go. I don't feel major weakness in the left hand which has the cramp and dexterity issues (can still button shirt, turn keys, open bottles etc.). No issues lifting weights or anything like that. The cramping and dexterity issues along with focal twitching in other arm is what has be real nervous. Does this sound like any typical onset you heard of or experienced? I am a 31 year old male with a 8 month old - I can't function at work as I am always thinking I won't be there for her growing up.

God bless all of you.

 

[Atsugi]

I hesitate to make any judgment here. And I think, given your history of symptoms, that only a doctor can say maybe yes or maybe no, and then only after tests and exams. Your description did NOT say ALS to me.

What you don't have is weakness. That's great.

What you DO have is "can't function at work." That's a serious problem, deserving of seeing your GP doctor. A GP doctor is specially trained to lead multi-disciplinary health investigations that might involve several specialists.

In the meantime, while you're waiting to see your GP, don't sweat ALS. It's rare. There are other, more likely explanations for your symptoms, no doubt.

 

[mc2484]

thanks Astugi, going to try and get to a doctor ASAP

 

[Nikki J]

While I agree that you should see your doctor for evaluation I think Mike missed why you can't function at work. You said it was due to worry if I am not mistaken which paints a very different picture than if you were unable to perform your job functions due to physical inability. Hot spot or focal twitching is common in BFS. You say no weakness or loss of function. To answer your question the onset is not like mine, my family members' or that of others I have read or talked to.

 

[mc2484]

That's correct Nikki and thank you for responding, I appreciate it. Real stressed about having ALS def taking a toll on me and my wife. The left hand issues are scaring me (dexterity and cramping). I forgot to mention I had a neuro exam from a friend who is a nuero at NYU and he said other than minor clonus everything looked good. He isn't an ALS specialst but def is competent! Told him about hand etc he said bfs can cause all kinds of cramps. At that time I didn't have focalized twitch though. Also get achy quicker when lifting stuff etc but he said w no weakness bfs is usually cause. Thanks again for responding, means alot. God bless.

 

[BlueandGold]

Agree with both Mike and Nikki. Weakness and atrophy are hallmark signs of ALS and you aren't exhibiting those. I had twitching and cramping as my first noticeable symptoms HOWEVER I also had visible signs of atrophy and weakness in my left hand. I know you are scared but believe me as long as you have been having your symptoms, weakness would have been evident by now.

Vince

 

[mc2484]

Thanks Vince. Appreciate it. The hand issues started in Jan. If there is any weakness it's not really noticiable to me. I do get sore easier but still able to do things I would normally do.