Seeking Support: Concerns About ALS
I’d like to share my experience for some guidance. Firstly, I have a tendency toward health anxiety, which I suspect may be more related to OCD, though I’ve never formally been diagnosed. At the start of this week, I noticed muscle spasms occurring in my right calf, followed by some in my knee and thigh, and today I even felt twitches in my upper right armpit area. Additionally, I've noticed a strange sensation when swallowing—specifically, a constrictive feeling on the right side of my throat. It feels like something is stuck, and I can sense a pulling sensation with each swallow, which is quite peculiar. Lately, I’ve also been experiencing a sense of heaviness in my right arm and leg. It doesn’t quite feel numb, but there is an undeniable weightiness that makes me feel like I'm limping. My job as a data entry clerk involves typing daily, and I’ve started to feel as though I'm unable to type as quickly or lift my arm for as long as I once did. The muscle twitching has spread to my full arm, with the exception of a singular twitch I felt this morning. Last night, I decided to go to the emergency room because the tugging sensation in my throat intensified into pain. I mentioned my muscle twitches there, and they conducted blood tests, including checking my electrolytes and magnesium levels. Thankfully, everything came back normal, and they suggested the throat sensation might be due to a lymph node issue. I have an appointment with my primary care physician on the 25th, where I am considering inquiring about medication for anxiety. However, the symptoms I am experiencing are driving me deep into a cycle of anxiety; I can't shake the fear that something is seriously wrong. Although I realize I’m young, that doesn’t guarantee immunity from serious conditions. I’m plagued with panic attacks and have difficulty eating, and I even contemplate ending some relationships because I’m gripped by thoughts of an impending fate.
Answers (1)
2/17/2026, 6:40:42 PM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your experience; it’s clear that you are going through a lot right now. The symptoms you’ve described, especially combined with your history of health anxiety, can understandably lead to significant distress. Here's a structured approach to help you navigate this situation:
Main Points
- Muscle Spasms and Sensations: These can result from a variety of factors, including anxiety, tension, or repetitive strain, especially given your job.
- Anxiety and Physical Symptoms: Anxiety can manifest physically, causing sensations like heaviness, muscle twitches, and swallowing difficulties.
- Next Steps: Focus on reducing anxiety and managing symptoms while monitoring changes.
Explanation
Muscle spasms, twitches, and sensations like a constriction while swallowing can often be linked to stress and anxiety. When you are anxious, your body can react in ways that may confuse or scare you. Additionally, spending hours typing can lead to muscle fatigue, resulting in symptoms such as heaviness or decreased strength.
The tests you underwent at the emergency room returned normal results, which is a positive sign. It's important to recognize that feeling something is 'off' physically can amplify anxiety, and this cycle is common.
Since you are already scheduled to meet with your primary care physician, you have a great opportunity to discuss your symptoms and the anxiety they are causing.
Prioritized Next Steps
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Continue Monitoring Symptoms: Keep a journal of your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. Note any changes, triggers, or patterns. This record will be useful when discussing your concerns with your doctor.
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Self-Care for Anxiety:
- Practice Relaxation Techniques: Engage in mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, or yoga to help with anxiety. These can promote a sense of calm.
- Regular Physical Activity: Gentle exercise, like walking or stretching, can help ease muscle tension and reduce anxiety levels.
- Healthy Sleep Habits: Ensure you’re getting enough sleep, as it is crucial for mental health. Set a bedtime routine to improve your sleep quality.
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Prepare for Your Appointment: Write down your symptoms, how they are affecting you, and your anxiety. This can help your physician understand the full picture and guide treatment options better.
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Consider Anxiety Management Options: Discuss the possibility of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which is effective in handling anxiety, OCD, and panic attacks. Also, consider inquiring about medication options if you feel comfortable exploring that route.
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Seek Support: Talk to someone you trust about your feelings. Sometimes sharing your thoughts can help alleviate anxiety and make it feel less overwhelming.
Your concerns are valid, and seeking help is a positive step. You're not alone in feeling this way, and support is available. Let me know if you have any questions or need further details on any of these points.
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