HomeAnswersNeurologymyokymiaCan I have twitching in my calves because of myokymia and not fasciculations?

How can I differentiate between myokymia and Fasciculations?

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.

Answered by

Dr. Hitesh Kumar

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At July 21, 2022
Reviewed AtAugust 16, 2022

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I had twitching in my calves, for which I consulted a neurologist and was diagnosed with myokymia and no fasciculations. Can an experienced doctor say the difference just by seeing it? What is the difference between the two ? Kindly help.

Answered by Dr. Hitesh Kumar

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern. Fasciculation is intermittent bursts of contraction and is seen as a single muscle twitch at a time. It can change location within the muscle or can recur in the same area at some intervals, but not rhythmic. Myokymia is somewhat few rhythmic and slower contractions in muscles at the same place. If rhythmic contractions are clearly visible, they can be judged by looking too. Many times EMG (electromyography) is needed to differentiate between these two. Myokymia can also happen in anxiety, stress, lack of sleep, alcohol intake, and many more causes. Usually, no particular treatment is required for myokymia. It may subside itself if the underlying etiology is removed. Kindly revert in case of more queries.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Thank you for your reply doctor,

Is there any way that I can show these twitchings to you? Kindly suggest.

Answered by Dr. Hitesh Kumar

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

You can try to make a clear video and send it as an attachment. But there is a lot of difference between seeing in real and seeing via video file or video call.

Thank you.

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

Dr. Hitesh Kumar
Dr. Hitesh Kumar

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