Constant twitching and leg weakness

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lcdeb44

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Learn about ALS
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Hello, all! I hope this post doesn't come across as repetitive, I did read the introductory thread and believe this fits.

I've been having unexplained shortness of breath since April, which I simply chalked up to anxiety when my chest x-ray was clear. Since then, it's gotten worse while new symptoms like full body twitches and leg weakness popped up. I wasn't scared until I tried to walk a mile and could not. (I used to walk 5-10 daily at a very physical job just months ago). My legs were so stiff and weak that I couldn't go any more. I had problems with balance before, but now it's somewhat difficult to stand still. I've also had bad sleep problems, and I stutter/slur my speech more frequently.

I've tested for any deficiencies that may cause this, none popped up. I'm just waiting for my autoimmune blood test results. I was told to get my GP to refer me to a neurologist if these tests come up normal. I'm not coming here for reassurance or diagnosis, I just want to know if ALS should be something I bring up to the neurologist if I wind up in their office based on my symptoms. Any direction would be greatly appreciated.
 
You don't need to bring up ALS. A neurologist will look for signs and test if needed, for anything in that area.

From what you've said, not sure even a GP has examined you? That would be wise before a specialty referral.

It would be very unusual for all the manifestations of ALS in various regions to show up all at once, so I don't expect that will be a concern. One thing that might come up is Restless Leg Syndrome or similar sleep disorders (RLS can cause symptoms during the day as well, as well as problems due to the fragmented sleep it causes). There are numerous other possibilities, all more treatable than ALS.
 
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Well, I did actually see a GP who ordered some blood tests, several of which indicate early markers of the condition (like high ferritin levels and a rapidly increasing Anion gap). Symptoms did not necessarily show up all at once, as the things I listed happened one before another. First speech and balance problems, then breathing problems, twitching, and now difficulty walking and weakness. I am not trying to argue that I have this, I'm just wondering if the added context may hint at it
 
Those labs are not the smoking guns that you imply. For example, they can suggest sleep apnea, dehydration, poor diet.

And my point about "all at once" was in a short time period -- you said SOB onset in April. So I still see no reason for concern.
 
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