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Boo Boo 621

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Manassas
Happy New Year Everyone!

It's Boo Boo. I don't think I've been on the site in a couple weeks now. I had to stay away and gain some sanity. I am back because I while I wanted to check in and say hello, I wanted to share that when I originally found this site, I honestly didn't even realize I would in fact be speaking with folks that were actually living with ALS - hence why I said Al sounded like he was all-knowing. As odd as that may sound, this being an ALS forum and all, my mind was completely out of whack and I just didn't know where to turn and try and gain some perspective. I started reaching out when I noticed endless (right) calf twitching and some other random body twitches. I did not have any atrophy or weakness and now finally understand what it means when everyone kept having to tell me those are two of the hallmark symptoms I wasn't presenting.

Anyway, the exciting news is that the calf twitching finally stopped and it's been almost two weeks since it went away! The bad news is that 2-3 days ago, I noticed my left hand ring finger twitching. Please understand that I am aware of my anxiety and that even though I felt so happy the calf twitching stopped and felt more normal again, I do know that for whatever reason these days, whenever something goes wrong or feels weird, my mind is taken to very dark places. I can see/feel the twitch on the top of my hand in between the pinky and ring finger knuckle which in turn makes the finger twitch. It happens periodically, mostly at rest and sometimes when my finger is curled up or maybe holding something. I have read ALS can start in the hands - I'm assuming this ALSO means there must be atrophy and weakness so I won't go there - but does anyone have any experience with Parkinsons? My great-grandmother had it. My family is having a hard time with me right now since I can't stop thinking the worst. I have two appts Monday, one with my family doc to discuss the anxiety/depression I have been experiencing the past month, along with the obsessive thoughts. I also have an appt with a neuro as I just don't understand what has been going on with my body lately. I just want the twitching to stop. Of course I read that Michael J. Fox's started in his pinky and the only piece of info that sometimes helps relieve me right now is that his just wouldn't stop. I at least get some breaks. So since it's Saturday and I'm trying VERY hard not to think about all of this before I go to the doctor Monday, could someone please reply to me? I am once again fearful (a little bit) of ALS but moreso Parkinson's. I also have some little weird rash thing that appeared on my face. I thought it was a pimple but it's not. It's scabby and when I looked up what it might be, I found seborrhea dermatitis - a symptom of PD nonetheless. This is not funny and I'm very scared again. Please reply.
 
Boo,
Happy New Year to you too. I'm proud of you for staying away, although you're always welcome. (I think you understand what I mean)

I have little knowledge of Parkinson's, however others on the forum who've had symptoms that might be this. have of course researched it. I believe Lydia is one who has learned a good bit about PD. You might try private messaging her if she does not see and respond to your post.

Good luck with your appointments this Monday. :)
 
Hi, BooBoo ...

My husband was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease several months ago. I don't know too much about PD, but his symptoms do not look at all like Michael J. Fox's. My husband's presenting symptoms were frequent falls, and a shuffling walk where he could not move his feet more than an inch at a time. Many times he could not stand up or walk at all. He also had a "typical" PD posture ... bent forward with his arms outstretched. He has had no twitches, although he does have minute tremors in his feet occasionally. Like all neurological diseases, there seem to be an infinate variety of symptoms, and it appears that every patient is unique.

My husband has been prescribed Carbidopa, which has had a remarkable (good!) effect on his symptoms.

There is a great Parkinson's forum at http://forum.parkinson.org/forum/

Parkinson's Disease specialists (neurologists) participate in that forum, as well as PD patients, so you will be able to get a lot more information on PD there than you will on an ALS forum.

Good luck!
 
Boo-
Happy New Year to you also.
I certainly wish you the best with your 2 dr's appts on Monday. and please... RRRRRRRRRRRRRRRREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEELLLLLLLLLLLLLLAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAXXXXXXXXXXXXXX:D
take good care,
-b
 
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