Introducing Myself

[DennisP]

Hi, everyone. I was diagnosed with ALS last week. My symptoms started around June 1st with upper back muscle pain followed shortly thereafter by slurred speech. As time went along, I noticed a tendency to lose my balance and fall. I did NOT get dizzy before the fall, and there were a lot of them. I also began to have mood swings. I could be laughing for no reason one minute and the next minute the tears would be flowing. I noticed an increase in sinus drainage, the reason for which had the Ear, Nose, and Throat specialist puzzled. Finally I was referred to a Motor Neuron Specialist. By this time we had our suspicions as to what the problem is. Without any prior discussion with him and after an afternoon of testing, he suggested what the problem might be, (ALS) but, he wanted to see if there was anything that could possibly indicate it was something else. He did not find anything else. I now have the muscle weakness over all my body and I am having to walk with a cane.
So here I am.

 

[Green Queen]

Dennis thank you for sharing your story.
So here you are. Very sad that you find yourself here, but I'm glad you did, as there's lots of good advice from knowledgeable, compassionate people.

 

[JimInVA]

Greetings, Dennis! Sucks that you have to find yourself here, as it would not be something any of us would hope for you. But you are here... and we've much to share with you and for you on this journey. Though difficult to explain, you may find that some of life's best days are still ahead of you. It's good to be here with you.

Jim

 

[lgelb]

Welcome, Dennis, and sorry you find yourself here. If your doc has not suggested Nuedexta for your tears/laughter swings, might be worth asking about. If you are using a cane, might want to start looking into a rollator (look for big tires, seat, adjustable handle height).

Best,
Laurie

 

[swalker]

Welcome Dennis. Sorry to read of your diagnosis.

As you have already seen, this is a great forum with some wonderfully helpful people.

Steve

 

[helkat22]

Welcome, Dennis

 

[Ginger83]

Welcome Dennis

 

[texastc]

Hi Dennis...I'm TC. Good to meet you, sorry it's under these circumstances. We'll do our best to help you...support you...or just listen. Lots of good folks here.

 

[sleepy]

Hi - I was also diagnosed a week ago. Really sucks huh? #understatement

guess we will all figure it out one step at a time

 

[Clearwater AL]

DennisP... in a single afternoon of testing was he also able to do an EMG and NCS?

 

[DennisP]

DennisP... in a single afternoon of testing was he also able to do an EMG and NCS?

Yes, these were done.

 

[DennisP]

Welcome, Dennis, and sorry you find yourself here. If your doc has not suggested Nuedexta for your tears/laughter swings, might be worth asking about. If you are using a cane, might want to start looking into a rollator (look for big tires, seat, adjustable handle height).

Best,
Laurie

Yes, my doctor has me on Nuedexta.

 

[affected]

Sorry to be welcoming you here, but it is the best place to be for great support and practical tips.

 

[Clearwater AL]

DennisP, you're very fortunate (in one aspect) that you were able to get a diagnosis in one afternoon as it is a much longer journey for many others... just getting the many tests scheduled and the results. Hope your weakness progresses slowly. There are many topics here on the Forum concerning weakness versus muscle failure that may be helpful.

 

[scaredwifetx]

Welcome Dennis. sorry you have to be here but its a great bunch of people.