Muscle Aches, ALS?

Ok, like everyone here I'm scared. I am 49 and do not have any major medical conditions except Hypothyroid, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder. About one month ago I started having muscle aches all over my body, but mostly arms and legs. Not cramping just aches like after working out, but sometimes feels nervous or numb. I feel weakness, but the muscles can still do everything. I took a bunch of blood tests and all was normal. I take Synthroid and Zoloft and Wellbrutin as well as a med for bladder urgency. I've been on all of them for quite a while. I do think I have the worst disease whenever I have symptoms, and I don't think this sounds like ALS, but do you? Sometimes it doesn't bother me for a few hours then comes back.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

I cannot diagnose over the internet without appropriate evaluation and examination.

Muscle aches can be caused by a variety of conditions, like lupus, arthritis or fibromyalgia.  Blood tests checking the ANA level and sedimentation rate can be discussed with your personal physician if this is suspected.

If ALS is suspected, an MRI of the brain and spine can done to exclude other neurological diseases.  Nerve conduction studies would also need to be done.

Checking the thyroid can be done to ensure you are on the correct dose of Synthroid - as abnormalities here can lead to some of the symptoms you describe.

These options should be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com