I have ALS and would love to reach out to others with the disease.
I just received a coughesis machine to enable me to cough up phlegm.
when I add the suction device it makes me throw up. The ventillator
machine seems to make my breathing worse. I know I have to get used to it but its difficult. Swallowing pills also has become a problem to we
crunched up my mucinex last night.
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Sorry to hear of your difficulties.
I have a 3 limb EMG scheduled for 2/11 to see if I have ALS. I have significant fasciculations and the neurologist has ruled out everything but ALS and BFS. I may be joining you down this path.
I hope that you find ways to cope with your symptoms and wish you well.
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1 ReactionWell I can tell you a lot. One of which is don't wait to do all the fun things you want to do in life. Unfortunately it doesn't get easier. I do have to come up with new ways to do things. You will find your close friends and relatives will be more important than ever before. It is wonderful to have a good support group. I would like to find others with ALS with varying stages. Best of luck to you and
hope to hear from you again.
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1 ReactionI have tons of questions, but I don't want to jinx myself before I even get the diagnosis next week. Having said that , did you start with fasciculations and how long was it before other symptoms started?
I appreciate your comment regarding a good support group. If I get bad news next week, I'll have to make some tough decisions. I have a house in Delaware that we've lived in for over 30 years and have tons of friends and family in the area which would be a great resource, particularly for my wife. The problem is that it is a 2 story colonial which would be difficult for anyone with mobility issues. My other house is in Hilton Head with a first floor master bedroom and a wide open floor plan which would be much more conducive for getting around, but with much less support available. I would have to choose one or if necessary get another place in Delaware that would be on one floor and still be near all of the support. I guess I'll worry about that after next week if I have to.
Thanks for your reply.
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1 ReactionOf course a diagnosis is important first, yes I call them twitches probably before
motor skills, and both homes sound desirable. Some homes can be retrofitted to meet your needs. Elevators may be an option. Maybe keep both for a while. While you still can, use Hilton Head as a nice vacation spot. Make it an Air BNB
if money is an option. I know I don't sound like the typical real estate agent of 35 years but I wasn't a typical one. I believe you have plenty of time to make up your mind no matter the out comb. Best wishes...
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1 ReactionHow long ago were you diagnosed and how old are you if you don't mind me asking. I'm 68.
My DE house is not configured in a way that lends itself to an elevator installation or I wouldn't hesitate to do it. Maybe installing an electric stairs would be a viable alternative. That thought just occurred to me.
Unfortunately the plantation that I live in in SC doesn't permit short term rentals (less than 6 months) so that is not an option.
Thanks for your thoughts.
I have had twitches for the past year or so but no other concerning symptoms. I am 54. How long were you twitching before you developed other things that led to your diagnosis?
I am not really sure as I might not have realized it until my left hand got weak.
Cant hurt to check with doc.
I was diagnosed in Aug 2024, symptoms started in May of 24. Have you found out any news on what it might be? I would not want to wish ALS on anyone. I am 78 yo.
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1 ReactionFortunately, I was able to get the news that it was not ALS on 2/14. I still have all of the fasciculations but apparently it is BFS since the 4 limb EMG showed no ALS indications.
Good luck going forward. Depending on the root cause of your ALS it looks like they are finally developing some promising drugs.
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4 Reactionsdid you notice any weakness in your hands before you were diagnosed? You mention your symptons started about 3 months before you were diagnosed. Were the twitches first? Were they accompanied by any weakness? I live in Chicago and am considering a trip to Mayo as the wait to get in to see a dr. is sooo long in my area. I'm worried sick.