Could this be ALS? Worried

[Croney321]

Hi,

I’m a 31 year old male who about 6 weeks ago started off with twitching in my thumb for a few days, this then stopped, but I started to develop weakness in my thumb, which has spread to a few fingers on my hand over the past 6 weeks. I first noticed this as things started to seem a lot heavier than usual (e.g. plates, mugs, etc.) . My hand is now noticeably weaker particularly trying to
grip things, I’ve also got fasiculatations in my hand.

I then noticed a few days ago my other thumb also feels weak now. I am seeing a neurologist this Friday but am very anxious this could be ALS.

I do have some sensory symptoms but I’m finding it difficult to interpret whether this is just anxiety induced (I.e moving my fingers so much they become sore, etc.) as the past 6 weeks have made me very anxious.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

 

[lgelb]

It would be very unusual for ALS to progress as you describe. I think your visit will be reassuring.

Meanwhile, it's worth reassessing the work and daily activities you do with your hands, with an eye to ergonomic positioning and avoiding overuse.

 

[Croney321]

Thanks for replying, I really appreciate it. Just wondering why would this not be typical? I thought weakness and fasiculations in combination could be indicative of ALS. Thanks a lot

 

[lgelb]

That's like saying a headache and dizziness is a brain tumor, when all you did was bump your head against the dryer.

ALS does not appear/progress at the speed and in the pattern you describe. There is no point in belaboring it. If you can even contemplate that some of the soreness is attributable to self-testing, it probably is.

Assuming the neuro and/or further testing clear you of ALS, you might discuss hand therapy with a physio or occupational therapist if your own efforts at ergonomic improvements do not bear fruit.