Dr. Ashok Kumar
Geriatrics
The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.
Answered by
Medically reviewed by
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I am a 45 years old female. I first experienced my symptom 18 years ago, which was left-hand side symptom. I have seen two neurologists since the last visit along with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was seven years back. My main concern back then was multiple sclerosis (MS), but the last neurologist said it is not MS. I raised my concerns of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), but my MRI was normal. I have again got symptoms back and have had a fall, in which the left leg just gave away a few weeks ago. However, this time, l also seem to have muscle spasms on right side and right thumb twitching. I am extremely anxious and waiting to see a neurologist again. I have had an MRI done again a few days ago, and my general practitioner (GP) said my report came back as 'no significant abnormalities.' Can ALS present with symptoms for this many years but still not show on an MRI? And with ALS, do symptoms present on both sides of the body? My GP said l have somatization disorder, which was diagnosed after the last neurologist visit. I would greatly appreciate your input.
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com. I read your query and understand your concerns. I can state with 100 % confidence that no ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) presents over the 18 years. It is a progressive illness and once started, there is gradual deterioration. As symptoms experienced by you are of episodic nature, the chances of ALS are characteristically nil. Since ALS is a chronic disorder, it initially presents with one-sided weakness and atrophy, but over time, the symptoms and signs are seen on both side of the body and there is a symmetric presentation. I hope this answers you. Feel free to write back to me if you have more questions. Thanks and regards.
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
Thank you so much for your reply. It has put me somewhat at ease. l guess my concern remains that I have heard amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) symptoms have been seen years earlier, hence my concern. My other concern is that on the left-hand side two years ago, I got numbness, spasms, and now wasting of some muscle around my left knee. My left leg is thinner than my right. I have now got muscle spasms on the right-hand side as said before and very noticeable thumb and index finger twitches. Has no one ever had years of symptoms before any real clinical abnormalities are noted? Thank you again.
Hi,
Welcome back to icliniq.com. Thanks for the follow-up. Regarding your post, the current symptoms in form of atrophy, asymmetrical atrophy, in particular, twitches and numbness can present with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), but as per my knowledge, no one has symptoms years earlier than the clinical presentation. It is rightly possible that all episodes are not related to the current presentation if it is ALS. However, I like to reassure you that before calling it ALS or a related disorder, we need to understand that complete neurological evaluation should be made. ALS have a varied presentation, and only the neurological examination can shed light on it and other disorders. We have clear evidence about having least possibility of ALS in your case and need to have your anxiety under control, as it could be another reason for twitches and numbness. I hope this reassures you further. Thanks and regards.
Was this conversation helpful?
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
Geriatrics
Related Questions
Does tingling in my hands and legs mean carpal tunnel syndrome or ALS?
Can vitamin deficiency cause muscle twitching?
Generalized Anxiety Disorder(GAD)
Kindly tell me whether the cramps I am experiencing are due to ALS or MND.
Can anxiety and stress cause frequent urination?
I have numbing, tingling, and muscle twitching. What might help me?
Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.
This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy
