[39F] Experiencing muscle rigidity and tremors

Question

I’ve had these symptoms for years but they recently stopped while I was pregnant and have recently started again

Patient Description

A 39-year-old female has been experiencing muscle rigidity and tremors in her arms, hands, and legs for several years. The symptoms manifest as an initial shaky feeling followed by an inability to move the affected limbs. Stress exacerbates these symptoms, while time and rest provide relief. The patient also experiences episodes of inability to speak during these tremors. Additionally, she has noted some difficulty with slurred speech and swallowing. The patient has a medical history of lupus and fibromyalgia, diagnosed in October of an unspecified year. There are no reported improvements with alcohol or other substances, and there is a slight change in cognitive abilities, such as thinking, planning, or remembering, though no severe headaches or changes in vision have been reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

  • Parkinson's Disease: This is a progressive nervous system disorder that affects movement. Symptoms start gradually, sometimes starting with a barely noticeable tremor in just one hand. Tremors are common, but the disorder also commonly causes stiffness or slowing of movement.

    • Treatment typically involves medications to manage symptoms. Physical therapy and regular exercise can also help manage symptoms.
  • Multiple System Atrophy (MSA): This is a rare, degenerative neurological disorder affecting your body's involuntary (autonomic) functions, including blood pressure, heart rate, bladder function, and motor control. Symptoms can include rigidity, tremors, and problems with speech and swallowing.

    • Treatment is focused on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. This can include medications, physical therapy, and speech therapy.
  • Essential Tremor: This is a nervous system (neurological) disorder that causes involuntary and rhythmic shaking. It can affect almost any part of your body, but the trembling occurs most often in your hands.

    • Treatment can include medications to reduce symptoms. In severe cases, surgery or focused ultrasound may be options.

Please remember that these are possibilities based on the symptoms you've described, and it's important to consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis.

What you can do

  1. Schedule an appointment with your primary care provider or a neurologist to discuss your symptoms. They may want to perform a neurological exam or order imaging studies to help with diagnosis.
  2. Keep a symptom diary. Note when your symptoms occur, what you're doing at the time, and how long they last. This can be helpful information to share with your doctor.
  3. Try to reduce stress in your life, as you've noted that stress seems to worsen your symptoms. This could involve relaxation techniques like deep breathing, yoga, or meditation.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

  • Your symptoms suddenly worsen or you develop new symptoms
  • You experience difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • You have a sudden increase in the frequency or intensity of your tremors
  • You have a fall or injury due to your symptoms

Remember, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan.

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8 mo ago


People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of Parkinson's Disease?

Common symptoms of Parkinson's Disease include tremors, muscle rigidity, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), and postural instability. Other symptoms can include speech changes, writing changes, and impaired balance.


How does stress affect neurological disorders like tremors?

Stress can exacerbate neurological disorders by increasing the frequency or intensity of symptoms like tremors. Stress management techniques such as relaxation exercises, meditation, and yoga can help reduce these effects.


What are the treatment options for Multiple System Atrophy (MSA)?

Treatment for Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. This can include medications to manage blood pressure and motor symptoms, physical therapy to maintain mobility, and speech therapy to address speech and swallowing difficulties.


Can lupus or fibromyalgia contribute to neurological symptoms like tremors?

Lupus and fibromyalgia can contribute to neurological symptoms. Lupus can cause inflammation that affects the nervous system, while fibromyalgia is associated with widespread pain and can sometimes include symptoms like tremors or muscle stiffness. It's important to discuss these symptoms with a healthcare provider for proper assessment and management.


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4 Comments


Jasmine#4037

8 mo ago

It's really quite odd that your symptoms stopped while pregnant. I know some women who've had strange symptoms while pregnant but not as much the other way around. Were you taking any new medications at the time? Otherwise I suppose it'd be a hormonal thing

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Anonymous#8751

8 mo ago

No, no new medicines. My obgyn says it must be related to my immune system since your immune system pretty much supresses itself to protect the baby.

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Jasmine#4037

8 mo ago

Oh I didn't think of that but makes sense! In that case have any immunotherapies or steroids worked for you to calm down your immune system a bit?

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Anonymous#8751

8 mo ago

I have lupus and was previously on several meds for that but had to stop them all when I got pregnant.

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