aching limbs

[GEZ10]

hello
two days ago when i woke up after a short sllep, and my left arm was aching unusually. since then the rest of my arms and legs feel the same ive been sick and had a very high fever and, just recently my fingers shake when i grip something hard. i thought it could be flu however, ive got no cold or cough. i went to my doctor today and theyve told me to go for blood tests at hospital. nothing unusual has happened recently. could it be ms or something else? i hope not

[Neuro Forum]

Thanks for using the forum. I am happy to address your questions, and my answer will be based on the information you provided here. Please make sure you recognize that this forum is for educational purposes only, and it does not substitute for a formal office visit with your doctor.

It sounds like you have been suffering from achiness in your arms and legs and a tremor particularly when you are trying to hold something. Without the ability to review your medical history and examine you personally, there are a number of possible causes that come to mind.

The fact that you have a fever raises concern for a systemic illness, such as an infection, that is also leading to achiness and tremor.

In general, we have what is called a "baseline physiologic tremor", a very subtle often un-noticeable tremor. In some people, certain factors can increase this tremor. For example, anxiety, infection, stress, caffeine, etc. can just bring out the tremor, and make it a lot more obvious. In your case, it is possible that the stress on your body caused by your fever is bringing out your physiologic tremor.

Alternatively, if your tremor only occurs when you are reaching for objects, trying to do something with your hands, you have what is called an "intention tremor". This may be caused by what is called "essential tremor", a common type of tremor that usually runs in families and for which there is a relatively effective treatment.

Other causes of tremor include thyroid problems, certain metabolic genetic disorders, Parkinson's disease, and several other neurologic problems. Multiple sclerosis causes tremor often only in the more advanced phase, and tremor is rarely the first sign of multiple sclerosis.

I suggest that you follow-up with your physician and under go the testing he/she has recommended. If your achiness and tremors persist after your fever/illness resolve, it would be advisable for you to see a neurologist.

Thank you for this opportunity to answer your questions, good luck.

[GEZ10]

Thanks
Fortunately the symptoms have rapidly reduced now.
It seems i had a unusual viral infection.
Regards
Gerard