Muscle Twitches: Causes and When to Seek Help

Muscle twitching is common?

For the past ten years, I have experienced frequent muscle twitching throughout my body.
However, since each episode lasted only a short time, I did not pay much attention to it.
Now, this twitching has not ceased over time, and I find it quite distressing.
Additionally, since the beginning of this year, I have been experiencing symptoms such as panic, dizziness, forgetfulness, and difficulty concentrating.
Although these symptoms only lasted for two days, I still feel very scared and unsure of what to do.

Peter Zhan, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/02/02

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Dear Mr.
Peter Zhan,
You mentioned that "the muscles throughout my body often twitch, but since each twitch does not last long, I haven't paid much attention to it.
However, this twitching has not stopped over time." Muscle twitching is primarily related to several factors: exercise, acute viral infections, anxiety, and medication use.
Among these, prolonged exercise is one of the main causes of muscle twitching.
Common medications that can cause muscle twitching include diuretics, corticosteroids, and excessive caffeine.
Metabolic disorders such as thyroid dysfunction and sleep disorders can also contribute to this issue.

Many patients find themselves in a vicious cycle where slight muscle twitching leads to anxiety, which in turn exacerbates the twitching, further increasing the patient's panic and anxiety.
Muscle relaxants can be used for treatment.
It is advisable to consult a neurologist for further evaluation and follow-up.
Thank you for your inquiry.
If you have any related questions, feel free to discuss further!
Wishing you good health and peace,
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Department of Neurology, Taoyuan Hospital

Reply Date: 2023/02/02

More Info

Muscle twitches, also known as fasciculations, can be a common and often benign occurrence. They can happen in various muscles throughout the body and may be triggered by a variety of factors. Understanding the potential causes and knowing when to seek medical help is crucial for managing your concerns effectively.

Causes of Muscle Twitches
1. Stress and Anxiety: Emotional stress and anxiety can lead to muscle tension and spasms. The body’s response to stress can manifest in physical symptoms, including muscle twitches.

2. Fatigue: Overexertion or fatigue from physical activity can lead to muscle twitching. If you have been engaging in strenuous exercise or have not allowed your muscles adequate recovery time, this could be a contributing factor.

3. Electrolyte Imbalance: Essential minerals such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium play a critical role in muscle function. An imbalance in these electrolytes, often due to dehydration or poor diet, can lead to muscle twitching.

4. Caffeine and Stimulants: High caffeine intake or the use of stimulants can increase muscle excitability, leading to twitching.

5. Nerve Irritation: Conditions that irritate or compress nerves, such as herniated discs or carpal tunnel syndrome, can result in muscle twitching.

6. Neurological Conditions: While less common, persistent muscle twitching can be a symptom of underlying neurological disorders, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or multiple sclerosis (MS).
7. Medications: Certain medications, particularly those affecting the nervous system, can cause muscle twitching as a side effect.

When to Seek Help
While occasional muscle twitches are usually harmless, there are specific circumstances under which you should seek medical attention:
1. Persistent Symptoms: If the muscle twitching has been ongoing for an extended period, as you mentioned, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.
2. Associated Symptoms: The additional symptoms you described—panic attacks, dizziness, memory issues, and difficulty concentrating—are concerning. These could indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires evaluation.

3. Muscle Weakness or Atrophy: If you notice any weakness in your muscles or if they begin to shrink (atrophy), it is essential to seek medical advice promptly.

4. Changes in Sensation: If you experience numbness, tingling, or changes in sensation alongside the twitching, this could indicate nerve involvement that needs further investigation.

5. Impact on Daily Life: If the twitching or associated symptoms interfere with your daily activities or quality of life, it is important to discuss these issues with a healthcare provider.

Conclusion
Given your history of muscle twitching and the recent onset of anxiety-related symptoms, it would be prudent to schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional. They can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination, blood tests to check for electrolyte imbalances, and possibly imaging studies or referrals to specialists if necessary.

In the meantime, consider lifestyle modifications such as reducing caffeine intake, managing stress through relaxation techniques, and ensuring you stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet. These changes may help alleviate some of your symptoms while you seek further medical advice. Remember, addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of your health is crucial for overall well-being.

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