Mum’s Mysterious Recurring Paralysis: Seeking Insights
Hello everyone, I am reaching out on behalf of my mother, who is 60 years old. Over the years, she has experienced a series of alarming episodes where she suddenly becomes paralyzed, yet medical professionals have been unable to determine the underlying issue. I want to recount her journey in hopes that someone else might have faced a similar situation. - **About 15 years ago**, she collapsed and was unable to move her legs; although she could still feel them, there was no motion. After roughly **10 days**, she was able to regain her mobility. - In **May of this year**, she faced another episode. This time, both her arms and legs were impacted, leaving her immobile for **2 days**. Thankfully, her arms regained movement first, followed by her ability to walk a few days later. - Just **two weeks ago**, as she attempted to rise from her couch, she lost the ability to move her legs once more. After waiting for 3 days, she managed to regain some movement, but the very next day she experienced a setback. Currently, she has been hospitalized for over a week, with **very limited movement below the waist**—she can wiggle her toes and lift her legs slightly, but walking remains impossible. **Investigative Measures Taken:** - MRI scans - Blood tests - Neurological assessments Sadly, none of these examinations have uncovered a definitive cause. The neurologist involved has indicated that they have not encountered a case quite like hers, labeling it as "undiagnosable" for now. **Current Medications:** - Among several medications she is prescribed, two notable ones are **Promixpole** for restless leg syndrome and **Diazepam**. I sincerely hope that someone in this community might have some insights or similar experiences to share, as it could guide us in asking better questions to seek answers. Thank you for any help you can provide.
Answers (1)
9/12/2025, 9:40:46 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm really sorry to hear about your mother's distressing situation. It sounds very challenging and frustrating, especially with such a lack of clarity after multiple evaluations. Recurring episodes of paralysis can be alarming and deserve careful attention. Here are some insights that might help you explore potential avenues:
Main Points:
- Recurring paralysis can stem from various conditions and could involve neurological or autoimmune factors.
- Collaborating with healthcare providers to explore additional diagnostic options is essential.
Explanation:
Paralysis that comes and goes can have multiple causes, including neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis, or even vascular issues and autoimmune diseases. Given your mother’s episodes and their varying durations, it’s understandable to seek further clarity. The assessments like MRIs and blood tests are important, but sometimes conditions can be subtle or missed in initial evaluations.
Some possibilities that could warrant further investigation, based on her history, include:
- Neurological Conditions: Multiple sclerosis (MS) or other demyelinating disorders could potentially explain episodic paralysis.
- Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions like lupus might influence the nervous system.
- Weighing Medication Effects: Assess if any current medications might interact or contribute to symptoms.
Next Steps:
-
Request a Comprehensive Review: Ask her neurologist about the possibility of revisiting previous tests or considering a more comprehensive approach, such as:
- Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap): This can help to check for inflammatory markers or antibodies in the cerebrospinal fluid that could indicate conditions like MS.
- Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve Conduction Studies: These tests can provide insights into the functionality of peripheral nerves and muscles.
-
Investigate the Impact of Current Medications: Discuss the medications she's on, particularly Promixpole and Diazepam, focusing on side effects or interactions that may affect her mobility.
-
Consider a Multidisciplinary Approach: Engaging with different specialists, such as a rheumatologist for autoimmune conditions, might be beneficial. A second opinion from another neurologist could also provide a fresh perspective on her case.
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Document Symptoms and Triggers: Keep a detailed record of her episodes, including time of day, activities just prior, and any accompanying symptoms. This can be useful during consultations.
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Supportive Care: Focus on supportive therapies, like physical or occupational therapy, to help maintain her mobility as best as possible during these episodes.
I hope you find these suggestions helpful. It’s crucial to be persistent in seeking answers, especially given your mother’s history. Don’t hesitate to gather all information and advocate for her needs during her medical evaluations. Wishing you both strength and clarity on this journey.
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