Question: Hi,

Male - 31 - Caucassion

I was previously performing 20 lateral raises on each arm and i think i could have been using a weight that is too heavy.

I also carried a rather large radiator from my dads to my flat aslo up three flights of stairs. This was a real strain and i felt most of the strain on my forearms and shoulders (this did not cause lasting pain and did not interefere with daily exercises).

Common cold, no fever, mild symptoms, but evidence my immune system was at work via bright yellow/greem mucus. Also sore throat. Period of one week XXXXXXX

Postponed daily exercises due to cold.

Felt that right hand was more clumsy. Hand shook and wrist began to drop when picking up a full cup of coffee.

Experimented with wrist strength and could no longer do a single lateral raise and keep my wrist straight on the wright hand. Whereas 1 week prior i could perform 20 without even considering my wrist failing.

I work in an office all day and lean on my effected arms elbow when using the mouse, i also paint small detailed models for a hobby, painting with my dominant left hand and holding them with my right had, which i occasionally lean on. I have only recently resumed this hobby and have spent considerable time each day dedicated to this activity hunched over at my desk.

Finally to summerise the symptoms that have failed to abate.

Stiff hand movements, but still functional.
Unable to bend wrist forwards (downwards?) without a lot of stiffness and restance.
Wrist drop when lifting 9kg weights (only when to the side ie lateral raise).

Perceived weakness, reduction in fine dexterity. But not entirely sure how much strength and dexterity i had in my right hand to begin with.

Fasciculations local to the base of my thumb and forearm, but also appearing on calvles, legs, back. Seemingly daily occursnce but not typically long lasting. Intermittend 4/5 times a day (noticed).

Tingling sensation with elbow bent over 90' angle (occasional)

Miniscule movements of digits, slighty waving from the position i intend them to be in.

The strength seems like it may have improved slightly, can now hold a full cup of tea for longer than 30-40 seconds without shaking. However stiffness seems to have increased.

Sensations of warm water on skin of legs (occasional, but more than previously occured).

GP performed exam and arranged for me to see a neurologist, MRI of the head and EMG, as she stated she wanted to rule out MS.

Could the onset of ALS progress that quickly?? Ie 20 reps with no issues one week, then not being able to do a single rep?

Thanks.

Hi thanks for you response.

So you would rule out a benign condition like a trapped nerve? Ie Ulnar or Radial nerve?

I see you listed "short duration" causes, but as i have been experiencing this weakness for around 2 weeks, does this exclude MS? If it does, then does that leave ALS as a potential cause?

Is rapid progression and then getting mildly better unlikely but possible with ALS?

I have read on the ALS forums that the weakness does not have good days and bad, it just progress'.

Like i said i have noticed some improvement over the last couple of days.

How unlikey is ALS based on everything I have detailed?

Also is there no chance this is something like tendonitis or Carpel Tunnel, Cubital Tunnel syndrome or some other benign nerve issue? Thanks again.

Hi, thanks again.

Just wanted to say i was referred to a Neurologist by my GP, I havent seen him/her yet.

I have only seen a GP, so wanted to check my symptoms with a Neurologist ASAP, instead of waiting for my appointment alone.

I understand the necessity for physical exam, and appreaciate your interpritation of my stated symptoms.