Questions on ALS symptoms

[alexander8]

Hey all, i've been reading these boards for some time because they help calm me down somewhat but alas i am still very paranoid and after noticing a dent in the side of my knee this morning i finally decided to post.

To begin, i have had fasciculations for about 7 weeks now. They used to be all over my arms, legs, neck, sides, eyelids and even belly but recently they have become concentrated in my legs (i'd say at least 90%). These fasciculations occur only when my limbs are at rest, and cease the moment i move the muscle.

Initially the fasciculations were quite intensive sometimes nearly half my leg would ripple with twitches but after i calmed down a little they started to decrease in frequency and intensity. As of two weeks ago almost all of the fasciculations were gone except for in my legs and soles, which is why i am worried because ALS causes fasciculations in specific areas only am i right?

Also, i have noticed that my left foot seems to be a tad bit uncoordinated, but only a little bit. Its sort of like when i walk, it comes down half a second too early. Sort of like a half-step. Not enough to cause a trip or stumble but just...well, its weird. This happens very very rarely, and mostly when i am not paying attention, but as always, the slightest thing triggers my considerable paranoia.

Finally, I have not noticed any weakness in my arms or legs - but that is the question i want to ask.

1) I have read that ALS involves fasciculations accompanied by muscle weakness, but would the weakness be noticable? Also, would weakness have set in by such a small time frame ( 7 weeks )?

2) Secondly, i have read from these boards that muscle weakness caused by ALS progresses very rapidly but "very rapidly" seems to be undefined... 4 weeks? 8 weeks? 3 months? 6 months?

I have been extremely preoccupied ( and extremely worried ) because of this, and like others here i've taken to manically checking my body for atrophy or weakness. I've noticed a few dents here and there but have no idea if it was always like that because i am a relatively skinny person.

3) My last question is: Is there a definative way to check for atrophy or muscle weakness? Perhelps a noticable loss of weight or something?

I'd appreciate any input from the community or experts...hopefully it will help put my mind at ease...

P/S I am only 18 this year. i know it's supposed to be extremely rare for someone my age to come down with ALS but it still has me worried sick. Oh and i'd like to ask one more question if you dont mind. I've read about stem cell research and all the possible medical benefits it could bring, so just out of curiousity, will there be a realistic cure for ALS in say, the next 5 or 10 years?

This has been a long post so thank you all for your time, i hope to hear from all of you soon,
alexander