Twitches, spasms all over body. BENIGN FASCICULATION SYNDROME?

Resolved question:
I am a 33 year old female. I've got twitches/spasms all over my body. I will feel them in one place and then they jump to another part of my body. Mostly in my hands and feet. Both sides of my body are affected. Also, when I cross my legs or dangle my feet they seem to tremor just slightly. Perhaps that is normal movement? When I lay down they do not tremor at alll. I have had the tremors all over my body for about four years. I've also had bad muscle tension for over a decade. The twitches and tension are not getting worse. They have been about the same since it started.

I realize it is probably anxiety (which I have) but I am worried about early onset Parkinsons. Again, I know it is most likely something like Benign Fasciculation Syndrome. But I wanted to hear if these symptoms sound like Parkinsons. Specifically the feet moving some when my legs are crossed/dangling.

Thanks!

Submitted: 4 Days
Category: Neurologist, Medical

Expert:  Dr. Sudhir Kumar replied 4 Days.

Hello,
Thank you for posting your query at DoctorSpring.com
I can understand your concern, however, I have noted your symptoms, and they are suggestive of benign fasciculations syndrome (BFS).
They are not suggestive of Parkinson's disease (PD), including the dangling of legs, while sitting.
Anxiety is making the symptoms worse.
I hope it helps.
Best wishes,
Dr. Sudhir Kumar MD (Medicine), DM (Neurology)
Senior Consultant Neurologist,

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Patient replied :

Thank you for your reply. One thing I forgot to mention is that sometimes I get cramps in my toes that draw them down. Is that possible with BFS?
Also for peace of mind, could you tell me why these symptoms are not PD? It will help me not be anxious. Thanks!
Liz


Expert:  Dr. Sudhir Kumar replied 3 Days.

Thank you for getting back.
Cramps are not part of BFS. It could be due to vitamin D or B12 or calcium deficiency. Please get them checked up, if not checked already.
The features against PD in your case are:
1. Age below 40- PD is not usually seen in people below 40.
2. Bilateral involvement- PD almost always starts on one side of body. If symptoms involve both sides of body at onset, it is unlikely to be PD,
3. Absence of other symptoms of PD, such as rigidity of limbs, slowness of movements (bradykinesia) and postural imbalance.
I hope it helps.
Best wishes,
Dr. Sudhir Kumar MD (Medicine), DM (Neurology)
Senior Consultant Neurologist

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