Recent doctor's appointment

[rtd8299]

Hello, I am a 41 year old male with the following symptoms:

- Speech issues for almost 2 months: feel like it's harder to talk, requires more effort, not articulating some words at times, tongue feels stiff and fatigued;
-twitching for over 2 months in arms and legs, calves, abdomen, back;
-perceived weakness in both legs for 3 weeks - comes and goes - can still exercise like before;
-perceived still/weak thumbs for 3 weeks - comes and goes

Went to see the GP today and he did the neuro strength tests, intracranial exam, reflex tests and babinski test. All normal. He said it's highly unlikely that I have ALS. He said he did not hear any slurring in my speech and that I seem to have health anxiety. He also said he does not believe I need to be sent for an EMG.

Given the foregoing, should I continue worrying about ALS because I still have symptoms? Or should this appointment be enough reassurance that I don't have ALS?

Thank you!

 

[ShiftKicker]

Hello!

Nope, if your doctor did not find anything of concern, you should not continue pursuing ALS. Not saying there's nothing wrong, but you don't report anything that would cause a doctor to consider ALS as the cause. There's more info here: Read Before Posting. People sometimes skip over some sections, but it outlines what and what is not signs of ALS.

Take care

 

[rtd8299]

Is it a very good indicator when you have a normal babinski, strength and reflexes?

In other words, if there is ALS those would not be normal?

 

[Nikki J]

Yes.
Correct

 

[rtd8299]

Do you think it would rule out bulbar als as well? Nobody has remarked that I sound off or are slurring but I feel like it is harder to talk most times.

 

[ShiftKicker]

Hi there-

Your doctor provided an examination that ruled out neuro issues. You even posted that he spoke to you about lack of bulbar issues:

He said he did not hear any slurring in my speech and that I seem to have health anxiety.

Please understand this forum can not be used as anxiety support. There are places much better suited- NoMorePanic or MuscleTwitch on reddit.

I will be closing this thread. Please don't start another.