Started Loosing Strength In Leg And Noticed Slight Change In Arm. What Should I Do?

Posted on Tue, 4 Dec 2012

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 4 Dec 2012 Answered on

Mon, 24 Dec 2012 Last reviewed on

Question : Over the past few weeks I have been losing power and strength in my right leg. Main problem is in the upper leg muscles it getting to the point where I can barely put any weight on it, just moving about is becoming a problem. The pain is strange, but not severe, it is the weakness that is over powering, like nothing I have experienced before.
I am beginning to get a similar sensation in my left upper leg, that has just started today and I have just become aware of it in the same way as the other leg.
I also noticed a slight change in my right arm.
Any suggestions would be helpful, I am beginning to worry about what may lie ahead.
Thanks, XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Stephen Christensen (2 hours later)

Hello. I'm Dr. Christensen.
I'm sorry you're having problems, and I'm more than a little concerned about what's going on here. Weakness in multiple areas on both sides of your body is not typical of a stroke, and I agree that it probably isn't linked to your heart or lungs. This presentation is more characteristic of a diffuse neurodegenerative disorder, such as symptoms and the problems you're having in getting around, I suggest you see your doctor at your earliest possible opportunity.
I'll be available if you have additional questions, but you really do need to seek medical attention.
I hope things go well.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar