Muscle Twitches and Anxiety: Your Symptoms

Q: Muscle Twitches and Anxiety: Your Symptoms

Hello： I suggest that you consider consulting a psychologist first, as many symptoms are related to autonomic nervous system instability. <br>Generally speaking, the autonomic nervous system is regulated by the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, with one acting as t

Muscle twitching seems to be related to anxiety?

Hello doctor, I have been experiencing muscle twitching for over three months, but this week it has significantly decreased to about three to five times an hour, with each twitch lasting one to two seconds.
The affected areas are my back, shoulders, and abdomen, rather than my hands and feet, so I can consider that it may not be related to neurological disorders, right? From the beginning until now, I have consistently experienced symptoms such as sudden awakenings, difficulty sleeping, a sensation of something stuck in my throat, mild body tremors, and feelings of nausea, which are all related to anxiety.
So, doctor, should I consider seeing a psychiatrist? Since I have been dealing with muscle twitching, I have been monitoring it daily, and whenever I notice new symptoms or changes in location, I search online, which has made me very worried about having ALS, even though it is a very rare disease, and there is no family history, and I am still young.
I have tried to stop thinking about it, but I often ask you about it, and I really appreciate your continuous support for patients like us who feel lost.
Additionally, when I visited the neurology department at the Veterans General Hospital, the doctor also thought that my anxiety during this period might be the cause.

Shanwei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/06/29

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello: I suggest that you consider consulting a psychologist first, as many symptoms are related to autonomic nervous system instability.
Generally speaking, the autonomic nervous system is regulated by the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, with one acting as the accelerator and the other as the brake.
The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for accelerating the body's responses, while the parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for slowing them down, allowing the body to rest.
For example, during exercise, the sympathetic nervous system is activated, leading to an increased heart rate, faster breathing, and increased sweating.
Once the exercise stops, the parasympathetic nervous system begins to take effect, slowing the heart rate, reducing breathing speed, and decreasing sweating.
Your neurological symptoms are more likely caused by excessive activation of the sympathetic nervous system.
Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang, Taoyuan Hospital, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2020/06/29

More Info

Muscle twitches, also known as fasciculations, can be a common symptom associated with anxiety and stress. From your description, it seems that you have been experiencing muscle twitches for over three months, along with other anxiety-related symptoms such as insomnia, a sensation of something stuck in your throat, and mild tremors. The fact that your muscle twitches have decreased in frequency recently is a positive sign, suggesting that your body may be responding to changes in your anxiety levels or stressors.

It is important to note that muscle twitches can occur for a variety of reasons, including fatigue, dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and, as you've mentioned, anxiety. In many cases, these twitches are benign and not indicative of a serious neurological condition. Your concern about conditions like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is understandable, especially given the prevalence of information available online. However, it is crucial to remember that such conditions are rare, particularly in young individuals without a family history of neurological disorders.

Your ongoing anxiety appears to be a significant factor in your symptoms. Anxiety can lead to heightened awareness of bodily sensations, which may cause you to focus excessively on minor physical symptoms, leading to a cycle of worry and increased anxiety. This hyperawareness can exacerbate muscle twitches and other physical manifestations of anxiety. The symptoms you describe, such as feeling nauseous and having a sensation of tightness in your throat, are also common in individuals experiencing anxiety.

Given your symptoms and their potential link to anxiety, it would be beneficial for you to consult with a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. They can help you explore the underlying causes of your anxiety and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Treatment options may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which is effective in addressing anxiety by helping you change negative thought patterns and behaviors. Additionally, relaxation techniques, mindfulness, and stress management strategies can also be beneficial in reducing anxiety and its physical manifestations.

If you have not already done so, consider discussing your symptoms with a healthcare provider who specializes in mental health. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and determine whether your symptoms are primarily anxiety-related or if there are other factors at play. It is essential to address both the physical and psychological aspects of your health to achieve overall well-being.

In summary, while muscle twitches can be concerning, they are often linked to anxiety and stress rather than a serious neurological condition. Your experience of anxiety and its physical manifestations is valid, and seeking help from a mental health professional can provide you with the support and strategies needed to manage your symptoms effectively. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are resources available to help you navigate your anxiety and improve your quality of life.

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