Unexplained weakness in the right hand. Wrist/finger deformed?

Posted by michc @michc, Jun 30, 2023

Hi, my mom has been suffering from a sudden onset of right arm/hand weakness. She is unable to grab/hold items. The hand/wrist/thumb & index finger is losing its definition. From the knuckle to finger tips have darkened in color. Now, the left is getting weaker. Speech is slower and slurred at times. History: she’s type 2 diabetic. Can no longer take metformin, was hospitalized twice. After switching to Jardience this has occurred, along with exceptionally frequent urination. All tests, MRI is normal. EMG test shows some minor nerve damage, but not enough to cause this level of weakness. Awaiting results of muscle biopsy. It’s terrible to witness my mom deteriorating so rapidly. This started late February, now the progression is rapid. Help!

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holdrege | @holdrege | Jun 30, 2023

I got benefit from wearing compression gloves on my hands. I got them on Amazon. I could not make all of my fingers work but now I can.

John, Volunteer Mentor | @johnbishop | Jun 30, 2023

Hi @michc, I know it's difficult watching a loved one suffering and deteriorating with nothing that seems to help. What you are describing does sound a lot like diabetic neuropathy. The Foundation for Peripheral Neuropathy has a lot of good information including a video webinar that you might find helpful for your mother. Here is a link to the site - https://www.foundationforpn.org/causes/diabetic-peripheral-neuropathy/.

There are also a couple of discussions you might find helpful:
--- Type 2 Diabetes: I have neuropathy in my feet and legs: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/neuropathy-in-my-feet-and-legs/
--- Diabetic Neuropathy progressing?: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/diabetic-neuropathy-progressing/.

You mentioned that all of this occurred after your mom started taking Jardience. Frequent urination is listed as one of the side effects among others. Here is more information on the drug:
--- Jardiance: Side effects and what to do about them: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-jardiance-side-effects.

Have you discussed your concerns with your mom's doctor?

michc | @michc | Jun 30, 2023

In reply to @johnbishop "Hi @michc, I know it's difficult watching a loved one suffering and deteriorating with nothing that..." + (show)

Mom is no longer on Jardience. She tried Tradjenta and that was discontinued. Now she is on insulin. Atorvastatin was discontinued since that causes muscle weakness. She has no physical pain. From the numerous tests, all results are normal. Her team of doctors say she’s a complete mystery. We await her muscle biopsy results. Next month, they will do a lumbar puncture. It’s taking a huge emotional toll on her too.