Worried many little symptoms could point to ALS

[KimmiD]

Hi there. I am hoping I’m in the right place. I have had very minor, odd things happening in my body and muscles for about a year. No significant symptoms, but just wondering if anybody here had very early warning signs that match what I’m going through. I have had restless leg syndrome for a number of years. It has now progressed to the point where about 50% of nights my legs are twitching and it makes it really difficult for me to fall asleep. I have suffered from significant spasms of my neck and shoulder muscles, but this is very rare. I am currently stuck in bed, unable to move because of a spasm on my right shoulder blade area. My hands also cramp up on a monthly basis. It’s not uncommon for me to choke while eating, but again this has been going on for years. When I yawn or even just randomly, I have noticed that the muscles under my chin/in my lower jaw can cramp up. Each on their own, is nothing that has concern me very much but altogether and collectively it makes me fear that there is some sort of neurological thing happening. None of these are a sudden onset, but more progressive in nature. Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated and I thank you so much for your time.

 

[KimT]

It doesn't sound neurological to me. If it were me, I'd get my vitamins and minerals checked for deficiency and make sure your electrolytes are balanced. Avoid caffeine, drink lots of water, and take magnesium. Your general doctor should test your D3, B-12, do a CBC and Comprehensive metabolic panel. These are all basic common tests. If nothing comes up, ask him/her what to do next.

The last think I'd be worrying about is some neurological disease.

Best wishes.

 

[ShiftKicker]

Hi Kimmi

What does your doctor say? What tests or exploration has happened for your symptoms? Are you taking meds for RLS? Have they been reviewed recently?

Also wanting to make sure you've read here: Read Before Posting.

 

[KimmiD]

Thank you both so much for your time. I do not have a doctor. Canada has major shortage. So my only option is walk-in clinic. It’s harder to get routine care here. But I think you’re likely right about my B12 and magnesium. They have both been low in the past. Thanks so much for the advice. I did read the “read before posting”. Thanks so much.

 

[ShiftKicker]

A few different options:

It's not clear what province you reside in. For Ontario:

Health Care Connect- register for a doctor there. The wait may be long, but not registering means you won't get one at all.

Call the health line at 811 and speak to the nurse about options. They can provide info and resources you may not be aware of.

There is also an online chat option in Ontario: 811HealthLine

Alberta:

AB Health Services

811 Health Link

Most community health clinics have nurse practitioners. They can be an entry into the diagnostic process without waiting for a GP.

If you are worried enough to be posting on a forum for a terminal disease, it's time to pursue some proper in-person health care. It may take a while, but you will need to get the ball rolling. If you haven't seen a doctor for a while and are taking meds for RLS already, you should probably get a med review anyhow.

Take care