OpenHealth Q&A

I understand you're dealing with concerning symptoms, especially given your family history. It's important to validate your feelings and acknowledge how distressing this can be. Let's summarize the key points and provide actionable guidance.

Summary of Your Situation:

• You’re experiencing widespread muscle twitching, tremors in your left arm, and muscle deterioration.
• Neurologists have conducted examinations and suggested benign fasciculation syndrome (BFS), attributing symptoms to psychological factors.
• You have a family history of ALS, which is understandably concerning for you.

Understanding Your Symptoms: Muscle twitching (fasciculations) and tremors can often arise from various causes, including stress, anxiety, fatigue, or benign conditions like BFS. It's also not uncommon for stress—especially following significant life changes like the birth of a child—to exacerbate physical symptoms. Muscle atrophy or differences in muscle mass can sometimes occur due to disuse or nerve issues, but these require thorough evaluation.

While ALS symptoms typically include progressive weakness and atrophy, the neurologists you've seen seem to have ruled that out based on their assessments. Their reassurance is important, even if it may not alleviate all your concerns.

Next Steps:

1. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a daily log of your symptoms, noting any changes in muscle strength, twitching frequency, and sensory changes. This will help in communicating with healthcare providers.
2. Engage in Gentle Exercises: Focus on strengthening and flexibility exercises for your left arm, as well as overall physical activity, as tolerated. This might help in maintaining muscle mass and function.
3. Manage Stress and Anxiety: Consider techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or talking with a mental health professional. These can help address the psychological aspects that may be contributing to your symptoms.
4. Seek a Third Opinion: If you continue to feel unsatisfied with the assessments, consider seeking a third neurological opinion. Bring your symptom log, and express your ongoing concerns about muscle atrophy and functionality.
5. Follow-up on Fitness Levels: If there's a noticeable difference in strength/function in your left arm, ask for a more detailed functional assessment. This could include recommendations for physical therapy if necessary.

It's okay to feel concerned, and pursuing clarity about your health is both understandable and important. Focus on self-care and engage with healthcare professionals who help address your concerns comprehensively. Please keep me updated on how things progress or if you have further questions.