Does amyotrophic lateral sclerosis cause dysphagia?
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I began having fasciculations after getting the second dose of COVID vaccine. Then I got COVID last year. For eight months, I was struggling with weakness in my arms and legs, fatigue, and more body twitches. I got an EMG and it was normal. In the eighth month, I was able to start cycling and running again. I am doing 5000 steps and cycling around 100 miles a week. My legs and arms feel better. Not 100 %, but better. I recently had a cold and then the flu, followed by a bad bout of acid reflux. Now I am having issues with my throat. It feels swollen and like I have something stuck. I am having a hard time eating. I am not choking but food does feel like it is harder to swallow. I am freaking out that I might have ALS. The neurologist checked my vitals and said that I have about as much of a chance of having ALS as he does. But I am still anxious about it, especially since I am having issues with my throat. Please help.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I understand your concern. However, I can reassure you that your neurologist is right and your throat and swallowing symptoms are not a kind of ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) as it does not cause any sensory symptoms. Instead, I suggest you set an appointment with an ENT specialist and a gastroenterologist. There is a high possibility that your problem is related to continuous gastroesophageal reflux and Omeprazole may not be sufficient to solve it. Chronic insult from gastric reflux may lead to severe throat, epiglottis, and or vocal injuries or increase the risk of esophageal pharyngeal cancers.
Thank you.
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I have lots of sensory issues with my throat right now. I have a lot of anxiety dealing with COVID. My Neurologist is close to diagnosing me with long COVID and benign fasciculations. I really want to believe and trust this response. It is just so hard dealing with the fear of ALS.
Hello,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
It is a prevalent problem. Benign fasciculation is so common and it is frightening for sufferers. Nevertheless, fasciculation would be a grave sin, just if muscle atrophy accompanies it. Otherwise, it is benign and usually a temporary problem. Therefore, believe your neurologist and follow your throat problem with ENT and GI specialist.
Thank you.
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
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