I just noticed hand atrophy

[Thronlessrose]

I have my first appointment tomorrow with a physiotherapist to find out why my hand is suddenly getting weaker.. started about a week ago, I just noticed a moment ago my hand, the right is definitely atrophied, when I bend it forward it’s very clear.. I guess I’m glad I saw it before it’s noticed by someone else.. i suspect I have bulbar onset.. I first originally through I had COPD I’m 24..don’t smoke since I constantly have phlegm in my throat and I failed a breathing test and didn’t response to the inhaler.. I’m wondering does anyone else here suffer from tachycardia? Mine is pretty debilitating. Also my left foot is definitely weaker and stiff..wigging my toes is becoming harder and harder.. so my right hand and left foot..just my luck.

But yeah I’m honestly balling after seeing my hand..I don't have much support so I don’t know what I’m going to do when I start really declining.. my partner is excited to move into together and I don’t know how to break it to him.. I’ll have to cancel everything.. I don’t want to tell my parents because they hardly care about my health deteriorating now.. I know there mild reaction will destroy me.. I know they won’t look after me.. I’m scared I’ll be left to suffocate or dehydrate .. I guess I need to look into care homes.. I hate this reality

 

[ShiftKicker]

Hi there-

Sorry you are feeling so worried about your health. Please make sure to read this link: Read Before Posting- it contains information about what ALS is and what symptoms are not associated with the disease- heart issues are very much not an ALS symptoms.

Your physiotherapist will better be able to provide reasons for potential hand weakness once they can examine you. The other symptoms your report are not part of the constellation of symptoms that would give a doctor concern for ALS. What it might be would be something to discuss with your doctor- who would look at the whole picture and work with you to figure out next steps.

 

[lgelb]

Tachycardia can be both a cause and result of impaired breathing and/or anxiety, so I would make sure the tachycardia, at least, is adequately treated, a medication matter for your GP, before worrying about breathing.

Counseling and/or medication for anxiety can also help you see more clearly what may be your mind playing tricks on you and what might be something to work on.

I very much doubt you have ALS.