Does twitching in the calf muscle mean I have amyotrophic lateral sclerosis?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 25-year-old female and I am afraid I have ALS. This started with twitching in my right calf muscle two months ago and that has now spread to everywhere. A clinical exam showed slightly asymmetrical brisk knee reflex, and it is brisker on the right leg where it bothers me, not including the plantar reflexes. Everything else was said to be fine. I had EMG that was normal except for single highly polyphasic motor units with a high amplitude which signal a nerve issue at L5-L4, but my MRI only showed scoliosis which I have had since a child. I am very scared. Please advice me. You think this may be an early onset of ALS?

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can completely understand your concern.

First of all, ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) is a condition which requires time to diagnose especially when it is in the initial stages. You said you experience twitching in your muscles. Do you have any other problems like muscle weakness or difficulty in swallowing or speaking?

Has your speech changed? For example, is there any slurring in speech? Since you have already got an EMG (electromyography) done, you can get a nerve conduction velocity test done to get a clear picture.

There are many conditions that mimic the ALS. So, do not panic and stay positive. Get your neurological examinations done at regular intervals.

For more information consult an internal medicine physician online