Worried to point of being unable to sleep or work.

[Alexgb81]

Hi all.
Just like everyone else here I’m worried sick and feel terribly selfish. I’m M43 usually fit and healthy.

Full disclosure, a good friend of mine died from ALS several years ago and a colleague has recently been diagnosed.

Approx 2-3 weeks ago my left hand started feeling odd; no pain or sensory loss, but clumsy (e.g. struggled to hold a knife straight at dinner) No clinical weakness or wasting noted. It seems to have progressed (certainly got no better) and become more clumsy and less coordinated but strength remains normal grossly and no wasting. I think it’s the thumb and index finger that are affected.

Right hand has also started feeling “clumsy” in the same manner (again no weakness or atrophy) and has started twitching/fasiculating of the thumb muscle.

No other symptoms noted.

I’m unsure if this could be “early” ALS or if I’m massively overthinking things, especially with history of being close to people with ALS.

The medical system where I live means I have a family doctor appointment in 2-3 weeks and am unable to see a health professional until then.

Any advice taken gratefully
Thanks.

 

[Nikki J]

Both hands in the space of 2-3 weeks to be affected sounds very unlike ALS. Also, even with a long timeframe it is unusual to have a second limb symptomatic while the first is minimally affected.

I am sorry it is hard to get timely care. My family is in the UK so I know what it is like. Try to keep busy and not think about it because the more you do the more “symptoms” will appear. This isn’t a criticism of you- it is human nature