Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
Is ALS The Reason Why I Have Been Experiencing Dysphasia, Hoarseness, Choking, Cough And Fatigue?
Question: I have been experiencing dysphasia, hoarseness, choking and cough. I also have fatigue, muscle spasms and clumsiness. My chest X-ray was normal but throat muscles weak. Is this als?
Brief Answer:
Possible, but there may be other causes as well, tests needed.
Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern regarding possibility of ALS.
It would have been useful if you had mentioned the timeline of these symptoms, when did the first symptoms appear and how did they progress over time. If they appeared in an abrupt manner then ALS is unlikely as it has an insidious onset with gradual progression over usually months.
If the symptoms did have such a gradual progression ALS is a possibility which has to be considered I am afraid. However there are other possibilities as well which could cause similar symptoms, the diagnosis is not made by those symptoms alone. Some other possible causes could be a stroke, a syrinx (a fluid filled cavity in the spinal cord or lower brainstem), a tumor, peripheral neuropathies and some metabolic or hormonal alterations.
For that reason before jumping to conclusions a neurological physical exam exam as well as some tests must be made, starting with some routine blood tests which can be ordered by your primary physician before the neurological consult as well as tests like electromyography and if necessary MRI imaging which are usually prescribed by neurologist.
I remain at your disposal for other questions.
Possible, but there may be other causes as well, tests needed.
Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern regarding possibility of ALS.
It would have been useful if you had mentioned the timeline of these symptoms, when did the first symptoms appear and how did they progress over time. If they appeared in an abrupt manner then ALS is unlikely as it has an insidious onset with gradual progression over usually months.
If the symptoms did have such a gradual progression ALS is a possibility which has to be considered I am afraid. However there are other possibilities as well which could cause similar symptoms, the diagnosis is not made by those symptoms alone. Some other possible causes could be a stroke, a syrinx (a fluid filled cavity in the spinal cord or lower brainstem), a tumor, peripheral neuropathies and some metabolic or hormonal alterations.
For that reason before jumping to conclusions a neurological physical exam exam as well as some tests must be made, starting with some routine blood tests which can be ordered by your primary physician before the neurological consult as well as tests like electromyography and if necessary MRI imaging which are usually prescribed by neurologist.
I remain at your disposal for other questions.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
My symptom have been gradual. I didn’t seek medical care as I was scared. I will follow up with my md. Thank you.
Brief Answer:
I hope nothing serious turns out.
Detailed Answer:
I hope nothing serious turns out.
I hope nothing serious turns out.
Detailed Answer:
I hope nothing serious turns out.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Remy Koshy
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
