[49F] Experiencing body shaking and limb weakness

Patient Description

A 49-year-old female reports a 1-year history of intense body shaking that occurs at rest and is not influenced by specific situations or activities. Additionally, the patient experiences episodes where the left hand locks into a fist. Over the past 2 weeks, the patient has also been experiencing significant fatigue and weakness, rating it a 7 out of 10 in severity, which has impacted the ability to move legs and head. The patient has a long-standing history of depression, diagnosed 30 years ago, and fibromyalgia diagnosed 10 years ago. Current medications include Ativan and Zoloft. There are no known allergies or adverse reactions to medications, and no recent injuries or accidents have been reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, possible diagnoses include:

  • Parkinson's Disease: This is a progressive disorder of the nervous system that affects movement. It's characterized by tremors, especially in the hands, stiffness or slowing of movement, and balance problems. The symptoms usually begin gradually and get worse over time.

    • Treatment typically involves medications to manage symptoms. Physical therapy can also be beneficial.
  • Essential Tremor: This is a nerve disorder characterized by uncontrollable shaking, or tremors, in different parts and on different sides of the body. Areas affected often include the hands, arms, head, larynx (voice box), tongue, and chin. The lower body is rarely affected.

    • Treatment often involves medications to reduce the severity of the tremors.
  • 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. It shares many symptoms with Parkinson's disease, but has more widespread effects on the body.

    • There is no cure for MSA, so treatment involves managing symptoms.

Please note that these are potential diagnoses based on the symptoms you've described. It's important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

What you can do

  1. Schedule an appointment with a neurologist. They specialize in disorders of the nervous system and can provide a more accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
  2. Keep a symptom diary. Note down when your symptoms occur, their severity, and any potential triggers. This can help your doctor understand your condition better.
  3. Stay active. Regular physical activity can help manage symptoms of many neurological disorders.
  4. Reach out to support groups. Living with a chronic neurological disorder can be challenging, but you're not alone. Support groups can provide emotional support and practical tips for managing your condition.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

  • Your symptoms worsen rapidly
  • You have difficulty breathing
  • You experience severe headache, confusion, or loss of consciousness
  • You have difficulty swallowing or choking, which could indicate problems with your autonomic nervous system

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for accurate information.

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11 mo ago

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People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of Parkinson's Disease?

Common symptoms of Parkinson's Disease include tremors, especially in the hands, stiffness or slowing of movement, balance problems, and changes in speech and writing. Symptoms usually begin gradually and worsen over time.


How is Essential Tremor different from Parkinson's Disease?

Essential Tremor is primarily characterized by uncontrollable shaking, often affecting the hands, arms, head, and voice, and is not typically associated with the stiffness or balance issues seen in Parkinson's Disease. Parkinson's tremors usually occur at rest, while Essential Tremor often occurs during movement.


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

There is no cure for Multiple System Atrophy (MSA), so treatment focuses on managing symptoms. This may include medications to manage blood pressure, bladder function, and motor symptoms, as well as physical therapy to maintain mobility.


Can fibromyalgia contribute to fatigue and weakness?

Yes, fibromyalgia can contribute to fatigue and weakness. It is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, and other symptoms such as sleep disturbances and cognitive difficulties, which can exacerbate feelings of tiredness and weakness.


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