Should I see a doctor?

[Deb]

Hi,
This is my first time to look in on a site like this. I'm very impressed with all the medical staff that take time to read and answer the email!

I'm having some symptoms that I'm wondering if I should have checked out or if they are even related to each other. I'm a 39 yr old female in good health, I've recently lost 65lbs and still have 30 to go. I have a quite severe case of tenitus (with some hearing loss) for the last 10 yrs. I had a full exam in '89 and was told it would probably go away if I'd lose weight (hasn't helped). I've also been treated for thoracic outlet syndrome which weight loss has improved.

The new problem is night time leg cramps, creeping sensations in lower legs, spasms and tics. I also have tender spots all over my legs that seem to be just under the skin. My husband and I can actually feel little knots or grainy like
areas where it feels tender. The other night I had a charlie horse so bad my big toe stuck up and wouldn't go down for 15 minutes!I'm a fifth grade teacher with 32 students and I don't know if these symptoms are from stress or if I should see a doctor. In case the diet (Atkins) makes you think I might be having a vitamin deficiency, I assure you I take loads of vitamins including calcium, magnesium, potassium and others suggested for cramping.

THANKS SO MUCH EVEN FOR READING THIS!!! Deb

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[CCF Neuro[P] MD,RPS]

Dear Deb:

Let us know what happens.

CCF Neuro MD

[Deb]

Thanks very much for the advice. I guess I'd better hunt up a neurologist!

[CCF Neuro[P] MD, RPS]

Dear Deb:

Congraduations on loosing the weight. The symptoms you describe may be either a peripheral neuropathy or restless leg syndrome.  The Atkins diet of high fat, high protein and low carbohydrate (I think I am remembering correctly) has some problems but it does work.  What does your neurologist say?  To better confirm the diagnosis may be to get an EMG, but I think alittle easier way would be a short trial of tegratol or dopa agonist.  If the tegratol or dopa agonist work then it is likely restless leg syndrome.  But, I would talk to your neurologist as he/she has had the ability to do a neurological exam.  Although it could be a few other entities, I would think that these two would be the most likely candidates.

Sincerely,

CCF Neuro MD