HomeAnswersNeurologymuscle twitchingShould I worry about ALS if I have constant muscle twitching in feet and legs?

I have constant muscle twitching in feet and legs with no difficulty in walking. Is it ALS?

Share

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

Dr. Vinodhini J.

Published At March 5, 2020
Reviewed AtMarch 7, 2020

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have been having tiny random muscle twitching all over my body which seems like a constant thing at bottom of my feet, in both legs, both forearms, and even my stomach for almost two months now. I am scared of ALS diagnosis. I do not have any muscle weaknesses or balancing problems. I can lift 40 lbs dumbells with no problem and still do push-ups and other exercises with no problems and sprint and run without falling or tripping.

I have had some sort of issue for almost a year where it feels like I am not getting a satisfying breath from time to time so I bought a spo2 meter and my O2 level fluctuates between 95%-98% with an average of 97% most of the time.

I am just freaking out because everything I search for comes back to ALS. I even watched a similar story last night and I had a panic attack afterward. I guess I am just looking for a little reassurance to calm down.

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).

You should know that there are a lot of benign causes underlying muscle twitching like anxiety, physical activity, thyroid gland dysfunction, benign fasciculation syndrome, vitamin B12 or vitamin D deficiency, low calcium or magnesium levels, etc.

As long as there is no progression, no weakness, no muscle wasting, there is no reason to panic about ALS.

I would recommend performing some tests:

1. Thyroid hormone levels.

2. Blood electrolytes.

3. Vitamin B12 and vitamin D plasma levels.

4. Complete blood count, PCR (polymerase chain reaction), ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) for inflammation.

Nerve conduction studies would help to completely exclude ALS and thus put your mind to peace. I recommend discussing with your doctor on the above tests.

I hope this helps.

Patient's Query

How are is ALS? As far as, what is the percentage of one developing the disease?
Answered by Dr. Aida Abaz Quka
Hello again! ALS is a rare disorder, occurring in 5 persons from 100.000. So, the chances to develop it are less than 0.005%. So far, there is no reason to panic. As I already told you, there are a lot of other benign causes underlying muscle twitching. Hope you will find this information helpful! Let me know in case of any further questions whenever you need! Wishing all the best, Dr. Aida

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

Dr. Aida Abaz Quka
Dr. Aida Abaz Quka

Neurology

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Neurology

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

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