[28F] Experiencing leg twitching and myoclonic jerks

Patient Description

A 28-year-old female has been experiencing intermittent twitching in the lateral thigh muscle for a week, which is worse when sitting still and improves with movement. Additionally, she reports myoclonic jerks during sleep. The patient has a history of anxiety since age 10, depression diagnosed at age 14, ADHD diagnosed recently, a duodenal tubular adenoma and mild gastritis diagnosed a few months ago, and constipation. She is currently taking Wellbutrin XL, Lexapro, Spironolactone, a multivitamin, Allegra, an AHCC supplement, and a gut health supplement. She has a known allergy to sulfa drugs. No new medications or changes in medication have been reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions could be causing your symptoms:

  • Benign Fasciculation Syndrome (BFS): This condition causes twitching in various voluntary muscles in the body. The twitching can occur in any voluntary muscle group but is most common in the eyelids, arms, legs, and feet. The twitching can be occasional or nearly continuous.

    • There is no specific treatment for BFS. Reducing stress and anxiety may help to minimize the twitching.
  • Anxiety Disorders: Anxiety can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including muscle twitching. The twitching can be occasional or continuous, and is most common in the eyelids, arms, legs, and feet.

    • Treatment for anxiety disorders can include a combination of therapy, lifestyle changes, and medication.
  • Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS): Although you did not report the classic symptoms of RLS, such as an irresistible urge to move your legs, it's possible that your symptoms could be related. RLS often causes uncomfortable sensations in the legs and an irresistible urge to move them, which can sometimes be perceived as twitching.

    • Treatment for RLS can include lifestyle changes, such as regular sleep habits and exercise, and medication.

What you can do

  1. Try to reduce stress and anxiety: Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and good sleep hygiene can help reduce symptoms of both BFS and anxiety disorders. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques, such as yoga and meditation, may also be beneficial.

  2. Consult a doctor: If your symptoms continue or worsen, it would be best to consult a doctor. They can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary.

What you should look out for

Reasons to see a doctor more urgently:

  • If your twitching becomes continuous
  • If you notice weakness or numbness in your legs
  • If your symptoms disrupt your sleep or daily activities

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I am not a doctor. Always seek the advice of a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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1 yr ago

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People Also Ask


What is Benign Fasciculation Syndrome (BFS) and how is it treated?

Benign Fasciculation Syndrome (BFS) is a condition characterized by twitching in various voluntary muscles, often in the eyelids, arms, legs, and feet. There is no specific treatment for BFS, but reducing stress and anxiety may help minimize the twitching.


Can anxiety cause muscle twitching and what are the treatment options?

Yes, anxiety can cause muscle twitching, which can be occasional or continuous. Treatment options for anxiety disorders include therapy, lifestyle changes, and medication.


What are the symptoms of Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) and how is it managed?

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) often causes uncomfortable sensations in the legs and an irresistible urge to move them, which can sometimes be perceived as twitching. Management includes lifestyle changes, such as regular sleep habits and exercise, and medication.


How can lifestyle changes help reduce symptoms of muscle twitching and anxiety?

Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and good sleep hygiene can help reduce symptoms of muscle twitching and anxiety. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques, like yoga and meditation, may also be beneficial.


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