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Is Thumb Twitching A Sign Of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis?
Question: Hi! My left thumb started twitching a week ago and the twitching has gotten worse with movement. I am very concerned about ALS and wondering if I need to get in to see a neurologist.
Brief Answer:
ALS unlikely but should see neurologist anyway
Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.
If that is your only symptom I do not think you should worry about ALS. If your worry is after reading about fasciculations in ALS, they are subtle twitches of muscle fiber groups, not of the whole thumb, that rarely happens. Also twitching is a feature which is on top of muscle weakness, so if there is no weakness ALS is not likely. The progression is much more subtle in ALS as well.
Such twitching of the thumb corresponds more to a peripheral nerve discharge such as in carpal tunnel syndrome which is a benign issue.
So while you still should see a neurologist for that issue, you shouldn't expect the appointment thinking you have some serious condition such as ALS which apart from not being suggested by that symptom is also unlikely at your age.
I remain at your disposal for other questions.
ALS unlikely but should see neurologist anyway
Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.
If that is your only symptom I do not think you should worry about ALS. If your worry is after reading about fasciculations in ALS, they are subtle twitches of muscle fiber groups, not of the whole thumb, that rarely happens. Also twitching is a feature which is on top of muscle weakness, so if there is no weakness ALS is not likely. The progression is much more subtle in ALS as well.
Such twitching of the thumb corresponds more to a peripheral nerve discharge such as in carpal tunnel syndrome which is a benign issue.
So while you still should see a neurologist for that issue, you shouldn't expect the appointment thinking you have some serious condition such as ALS which apart from not being suggested by that symptom is also unlikely at your age.
I remain at your disposal for other questions.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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