EMG and shaking

[NotALS!]

After my 3rd EMG in 2 years, my new neuro said he didn't see evidence of muscle noise. I had started taking an antibiotic, rifampin, and it really quieted down the constant shaking, vibrations everywhere. Since the test, the shaking has started up again.

Does ALS stop and start? If this second opinion says I don't have ALS I'll lose my SSD and I'm afraid really do have ALS.


I'd love to believe that I don't have ALS but how can I be sure? I'm having trouble breathing now too.

 

[trfogey]

After my 3rd EMG in 2 years, my new neuro said he didn't see evidence of muscle noise. I had started taking an antibiotic, rifampin, and it really quieted down the constant shaking, vibrations everywhere. Since the test, the shaking has started up again.

What a weird way to characterize the findings of an EMG -- "didn't see evidence of muscle noise". How about evidence of chronic denervation/renervation, or motor neuropathy, or myopathy, etc.?

Does ALS stop and start? If this second opinion says I don't have ALS I'll lose my SSD and I'm afraid really do have ALS.

ALS progression does appear to plateau sometimes, but I doubt that the underly process actually stops. And as to losing SSD, if you don't actually have ALS, you'll just have to wait out the remainder of the normal two-year qualification period, instead of taking advantage of the six-month qualifying period for PALS. One of those "careful what you wish for" situations, isn't it?

I'd love to believe that I don't have ALS but how can I be sure? I'm having trouble breathing now too.

Time will tell. ALS progresses -- other things don't. Get yourself to a neuromuscular disease expert and let them figure it out.

 

[notme]

Is this by chance a lyme doctor that did this latest EMG? Seriously, have it done by a neuromuscular specialist at an ALS clinic. THEY are the ones that know every nuance seen and will give you a proper diagnosis either way.