DJohnDavies
Well-known member
It looks like there is a new doctor/neuro answering questions on MedHelp and this is what he/she had to say about ALS and typical progression:
Tremor is not a usual ALS symptom, and if it does appear it is usually late in the course. The normal EMG also speaks against ALS. Sensory complaints like pins and needles are very unusual for ALS, as this disease affects the MOTOR neurons.
The sequence of events, depending on the subtype of ALS, is usually weakness, wasting and fasciculations/cramps of one limb spreading to other limbs or swallowing muscles. Certain types can present with the swallowing muscles first, or muscle weakness or spasticity first.
Maybe if you are not getting any answers and your tests are normal, you should be reassured rather than more anxious that you do not have a diagnosis of a neurological disease
Over the internet I cannot give you the all clear as I have not seen you or your tests, but address you worries with your neurologist or your family physician. Also, as you will soon learn at MedSchool, time is an excellent diagnostic tool
The bold is mine. Lots of questions around here lately about the sequence of ALS and I hope this description from a real doctor helps.
Johnny
Tremor is not a usual ALS symptom, and if it does appear it is usually late in the course. The normal EMG also speaks against ALS. Sensory complaints like pins and needles are very unusual for ALS, as this disease affects the MOTOR neurons.
The sequence of events, depending on the subtype of ALS, is usually weakness, wasting and fasciculations/cramps of one limb spreading to other limbs or swallowing muscles. Certain types can present with the swallowing muscles first, or muscle weakness or spasticity first.
Maybe if you are not getting any answers and your tests are normal, you should be reassured rather than more anxious that you do not have a diagnosis of a neurological disease
Over the internet I cannot give you the all clear as I have not seen you or your tests, but address you worries with your neurologist or your family physician. Also, as you will soon learn at MedSchool, time is an excellent diagnostic tool
The bold is mine. Lots of questions around here lately about the sequence of ALS and I hope this description from a real doctor helps.
Johnny