Arm weakness discomfort/constant need to stretch and lightheaded

[tennisman]

For about six months I've been having muscle weakness and discomfort. I have this constant urge to stretch, but the stretching never helps with the discomfort. I also feel like my wrists are always clenched and they sometimes hurt. Also, when I'm lying down my arms have this really weak tired feeling. I've also been experiencing lightheadedness as well and it's worse sometimes when I'm standing. I've had stomach problems for a year and in January I was diagnosed with gastroparesis.  I've had lots of blood work done. For a while my ALT and AST liver enzymes were twice what they should be, now they are back to normal. My HDL cholesterol is low at 34. My HDL risk factor is a little high at 5.1. I eat pretty healthy and exercise, so that's a little puzzling. The only medication I'm on is Azithromycin for Gastroparesis and Amitiza for chronic constipation.

Does anyone know what could be causing the muscle weakness and lightheadedness?
Thanks.

[zusia]

I just googled "symptoms feels like I need to stretch" and came up with your question. My 15yo son has the same problem, and just had an episode a few minutes ago that prompted my query. When this happens he can't make a tight fist, his arms feel weak, and he has that compulsion to stretch, which he says helps briefly but the moment he relaxes he feels the need to stretch again.

My son also gets lightheaded but has many other symptoms as well. Doctors suspect he has an autoimmune disorder, probably lupus.

[Dr. Kokil Mathur]

Hi
Thanks for writing to the forum!
Muscle weakness in upper limbs and light headedness could be due to spinal nerve compression at the upper cervical level. You may need a MRI to rule this out. Consult a neurologist. You may also need nerve conduction study.
There is a possibility that you suffer from TOS or thoracic outlet syndrome.
It is difficult to comment beyond this at this stage.  Please let me know if there is any thing else and do keep me posted. Take care!