Fearing ALS or MS

Posted by nik1234 @nik1234, Feb 26, 2023

Can anyone with experience please shed some light?
I am a 36yr old female so I know I am in the ‘low risk’ category for ALS. However I can’t shake the fear because something is going on! My gp initially put symptoms down to anxiety after being attacked by a dog. However that was 2 months ago and I am getting new symptoms.

History:
- 8 weeks ago tongue fascilation a one specific spot on left hand side I could feel and see. It still makes a dent now if I tense my tongue muscle by poking it out.
- In the past week I have been having pretty consistent leg twitches and sore muscles that started in calf and now thigh.
- Sore front neck muscles that are easily agitated. Feels like I’ve been doing sit ups and straining neck muscles.
- Hands feel stiff and finger joints sore.
- I have had 2 sets of blood tests that show no deficiencies.
- I had an MRI 2 weeks ago that showed a ‘non-specific’ spot on the brain that neurologist said she wasn’t too concerned about and wants me to have another one in 12 months.
- I have another neuro app this Friday to discuss new symptoms. Do I request EMG? Any advice for what to discuss with Neurologist?

Thank you for any insight.

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ekelks | @ekelks | Feb 27, 2023

Third attempt to respond. I have MS, cannot control my hands. Don't think you have it. EKG, wrong test. MRIs with contrast dye, brain, spine. Spinal taps.

Is your balance off-center? Do you trip when you walk? Do you have problems swallowing? Talking? Is your eyesight ok? You can see an ophthalmologist and have your optic nerve looked at. Do you feel any tingling and numbness? Do you feel crazy when you get overheated? When you get a fever, what happens? Can you stand? Do you collapse? If you hold your arms out in front of you, is there a tremor, do they shake? Can you close your eyes and touch your nose with each hand? Do you have problems peeing? Too much? Or not at all till suddenly..
rush to the toilet. Are you constipated?

These are symptoms of MS. A neurologist would know a lot more. Your GP has to refer you to one but sounds like she doesn't think it necessary.

Being attacked by a dog would make me so frightened and shocked, I'd be scared to go out. Fear and anxiety can manifest physically, psychosomatic... the brain telling the body, holy scones, ouch. And you just hurt. For a long time, I'd imagine. Have you been prescribed anything for anxiety?

I don't know enough about ALS, but agree it's unlikely.

Much luck to you, .Not understanding or knowing what's happening is extremely stressful and maybe some of your symptoms manifest that, a vicious circle.