Finding Comfort in Mental Struggles

[TyrianLan]

I left out a small bit of information in my first post about my story. And, after thinking about it I thought it might be something that someone finds comfort in. Especially when in the middle of the mental struggle. So, whether you agree or not, here it is.My neuorologist specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders of the peripheral nerves and muscles. And subspecialty training in the use of electrodiagnostic testing. He completed a neurology residency at the Mayo Graduate School of Medicine in 1995 and his neurophysiology/electromyography fellowship at Mayo Clinic in 1996. Don't know how important this piece is but it made me feel good that he recieved some good education. To me, he also appeared to be on the conservative end of the diagnosing spectrum and didn't jump to anything without first performing a few tests beyond the basic exam. For example, although he probably thought this, he wouldn't diagnos BFS until after performing an EMG.Anway, during my first visit I gave my story about the fasiculations and my worries. And to my suprise he told me that from his experience fasiculations are not even a common symptom of ***. This suprised me, since I was well educated on the matter at the Google School of Medicine. So, I choose to go with the news that makes me feel better and the guy who appears to be very knowledgable in this area. He seems to think that fasiculations are common enough that this is over reported as a symptom. Now, I'm sure this could start a debate, which is not my intention, I just wanted to throw this out there. And if it gives me piece of mind, I'm going with it!

 

[WellsFive]

Shouldn't be a debate!!! I never understand why people argue on this forum! this is a very nice post, I think any advise we give eachother from our doctors, helps us that much more. Thank you so much for the nice post! Ashley

 

[JohnnyRocket]

trajon-I wouldn't worry about starting a debate with that tidbit of info because it is right on. As I understand it, fasiculations are rarely the symptom that ALS sufferers go to their neuro about. Long before fasiculations set in, weakness would be so signficant that some other very obvious symptom would spur a doctor visit. Like, if someone can no longer hold a coffee mug with their right hand EVER (not to be confused with "feeling" weak when holding a mug). People often forget about this fact, or overlook it due to the anxiety we all "enjoy." But thanks for the feedback!As for debating, I am not a fan of arguing and personal attacks, etc., but sometimes debate is necessary. When people post false or unsubstantiated information it is necessary to set the record straight. The truth is very important, especially when it comes to BFS and its symptoms.

 

[MsMaverick]

I agree with your statement. At my follow up visit with my GP I got to see my report from the neuro. It said something along the lines of "worried about ALS, ....but only has twitches...no weakness or atrophy". I can't remember the exact wording but it kinda sounded like...worried about cancer because of zit, you know like one was totally unrelated to the other. He didn't even call them faciculations. He is an experiences neuro with 30 yrs in the business, so I know he knows his stuff. It made me feel good to know he was not impressed or concerned about them, after all it is their job, so I know he was looking. After my initial appointment where he did strength testing and stuff, he was sure it wasn't anything nasty, but offered to do EMG for my peace of mind.