Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Causes Sudden Jerks, Fatigue In Arm And Leg?
Posted on
Tue, 26 Jul 2016
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Tue, 26 Jul 2016
Answered on
Mon, 22 Aug 2016
Last reviewed on
Question : I have arm, leg sudden "jerking" when tired. There are times I can't control my legs. I am under a Dr's are who says all my bloodwork "is fine" What about Parkinson's? My blood did show Multiple Myloma>
Brief Answer:
Read below
Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.
Looking at that description I do not think that Parkinson’s disease is the cause. It does not manifest with those sudden jerks but with a persistent rhythmic tremor or the limbs initially on one side and over the years bilateral. There are other symptoms as well such as rigidity of the limbs, slowing of the movements etc.
As to what the cause is, multiple myeloma may well have something to do with it. It may do so through several mechanisms as it is a condition which alters the balance of many substances in our body. It may cause weakness and dizziness due to anemia or to blood hyperviscosity. It may infiltrate the spinal cord and cause weakness, spasticity, myoclonus (sudden muscle movements). May infiltrate peripheral nerves and cause weakness and muscle fasciculations (twitching) in the territory covered by those nerves. So a neurological exam is necessary to check for other signs which could indicated cord or peripheral nerves involvement.
It could also be considering symptoms appear when tired, simply electrolyte imbalance due to physical exertion, at your age and with a systemic condition like multiple myeloma you are more prone to that. It may be evident only when exerting yourself and not evident on occasional blood work.
I remain at your disposal for other questions.
Read below
Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.
Looking at that description I do not think that Parkinson’s disease is the cause. It does not manifest with those sudden jerks but with a persistent rhythmic tremor or the limbs initially on one side and over the years bilateral. There are other symptoms as well such as rigidity of the limbs, slowing of the movements etc.
As to what the cause is, multiple myeloma may well have something to do with it. It may do so through several mechanisms as it is a condition which alters the balance of many substances in our body. It may cause weakness and dizziness due to anemia or to blood hyperviscosity. It may infiltrate the spinal cord and cause weakness, spasticity, myoclonus (sudden muscle movements). May infiltrate peripheral nerves and cause weakness and muscle fasciculations (twitching) in the territory covered by those nerves. So a neurological exam is necessary to check for other signs which could indicated cord or peripheral nerves involvement.
It could also be considering symptoms appear when tired, simply electrolyte imbalance due to physical exertion, at your age and with a systemic condition like multiple myeloma you are more prone to that. It may be evident only when exerting yourself and not evident on occasional blood work.
I remain at your disposal for other questions.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
