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Are my muscle fasciculations pointing towards ALS?

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Are my muscle fasciculations pointing towards ALS?

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At April 25, 2018
Reviewed AtFebruary 27, 2024

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have some symptoms that worry me a lot. I have been having muscle fasciculations all over my body (hands, arms, feet, legs, chest wall, glutes, knees, and cheek), every day, multiple times, for about half a year. Recently, (for about two weeks) they have worsened and I twitch almost constantly every day. I have noticed that the twitches are not present when I am physically active (for example, when I go for a walk or when I do moderate exercise). But the moment I sit or lay down, they appear again. I have also noticed slight occasional pain in my arms, hands, sometimes legs and feet as well. I have had a few cramps in my feet. My hands also feel slightly weak and tired. I have not noticed, however, signs of atrophy or actual weakness (I am able to do everyday tasks with my hands, etc). I also do not have difficulty breathing or speaking. I have had a blood test done and I do not lack any minerals. Levels of my thyroid hormones are normal. I do not drink coffee and I do not smoke. I get enough hours of sleep every day and I also would not say that I am under an extreme amount of stress. I went to see a neurologist a week and a half ago who performed a quick test to examine my reflexes and strength, stated they were normal and said I probably have BFS (benign fasciculation syndrome). However, I am still worried that I might have motor neuron disease. The fasciculations are extremely annoying and I have no idea what might be causing (and worsening) them and I am also worried because of the newly acquired pain, cramping, and feeling of tiredness in my hands. Not a single day passes by without my muscles twitching. I am female, 21 years old. I do not have a family history of neuromuscular disease. I would like to know whether my symptoms are indicative of ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis). Is it possible to get some tests or examinations that would exclude ALS? I would really like to find out the reason behind my fasciculations as they have started to interfere greatly with my peace of mind.

Answered by Dr. Aida Abaz Quka

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com. I read carefully your question and would explain that your symptoms do not seem to be related to ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis). Besides, at your age, this diagnosis would be exceptional. I agree with your doctor that benign fasciculation syndrome seems to be the most probable cause of your complaints, considering the fact that all your blood lab tests resulted normal. Anyway, an electromyography coupled with nerve conduction studies would help definitely exclude ALS. I would also recommend checking Vitamin D and B12 plasma levels for the possible deficiency. You should discuss with your doctor on the above tests. I remain at your disposal for any other questions whenever you need.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Aida Abaz Quka
Dr. Aida Abaz Quka

Neurology

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