Fasciculations, cramps, weakness, tremors, dysphagia

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SonyaTerjanian

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Dec 4, 2022
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Learn about ALS
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00/0000
Country
US
State
NY
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Dobbs Ferry
Hello. I'm a 52 yo female with widespread, constant fasciculations, plus muscle cramps in my feet, legs, abs, and jaw. I have severe tremors after exertion and noticeable weakness in my arms and legs, particularly my left arm. My tongue shows constant tremors. Bloodwork shows elevated c-reactive protein; waiting for myasthenia gravis panel to come back. EMG scheduled for this week. I would be grateful for any feedback on what this sounds like. Thank you!
 
You must have seen a doctor and probably a neurologist given your testing. What did your clinical exam show? Was weakness confirmed? Was there spastcity or abnormal reflexes? Of course your emg will give you more information
 
I'd be interested to know what your doctor has said they are thinking?
Let us know the EMG results
 
Thank you for the quick replies! My doctor said “we have a lot to rule out “ and didn’t want to go beyond that. She did trot down the hall to her colleague to make sure he could fit an EMG in on a day she would be there. She didn’t say anything about weakness but I’m unable to do things like hold a glass with my left hand. I’ve also noticed that my gag reflex is crazy all of the sudden. Anyway thanks for listening. My friends think I’m nuts.
 
Please let us know how it goes. As your doctor says a lot to look at. The emg is an important piece and may show nothing or something that points away from ALS. It also may suggest ALS but part of the diagnostic process involves many blood tests and also mris to rule out mimics. Also if you are not seeing an ALS specialist if it remains in the differential you should definitely seek an opinion at an academic medical center ALS clinic. There are several in NYC if it comes to that. We do always recommend 2 ALS specialist opinions given the severity of the diagnosis.

I hope this isn’t the case for you. What day is the EMG? I will be thinking of you
 
Thanks for clarifying. The EMG is used to test for many things, so I'm sure hoping it is something far more common and treatable. Do let us know the results.
 
I'm delighted to report that my EMG was normal. My neurologist thinks I may have something rheumatological going on, based on some things in my bloodwork. I'm also going to taper off the low-dose Effexor I've been taking for hot flashes. She said that can cause twitching and cramping. I sure wish someone had told me that... Anyway, signing off with gratitude.
 
Thank you for letting us know. I am very happy for you. Wishing you all the best
 
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