How can I differentiate between myokymia and Fasciculations?

Question

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.

Answer 1

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.

Answer 2

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.