How can it be diagnosed?
When the cause is investigated by the doctor, information about the duration and intensity of the twitching is important. In addition, it is important for the doctor to know which medication the person concerned is taking and whether there are any other complaints. This is followed by a neurological examination with tests of reflexes, coordination, balance and muscle strength.
Usually a blood sample is also taken. Depending on the doctor’s suspicions, further examinations, such as an MRI, may follow. If necessary, a discussion about possible psychological factors will follow.
Duration of muscle twitches
Harmless muscle twitches are usually only of short duration and not as pronounced. They also do not occur as frequently. Under stress, the twitches can be stronger.
In addition, a connection between the triggering stressful situations and the extent of the twitching can often be identified. In ALS, there are slight twitches that occur frequently, are of varying duration and increase over the course of the disease. If the muscle twitching is caused by stimulants, it correlates with the effect level of the substance. Tremor (permanent tremor), as in Parkinson’s disease, continues continuously and can hardly be influenced.
Therapy of muscle twitches in the hand
Therapy and treatment depend on the cause of the muscle twitches. Relaxation methods and learning how to cope with stress help. If there is a strong psychological strain, psychotherapy is advisable.
In the case of a magnesium deficiency, the intake of additional magnesium and a balanced diet alleviates the symptoms. Magnesium can also be taken in case of muscle twitching due to other diseases. However, this should be discussed with the doctor.
In addition, stimulating substances such as caffeine, drugs and alcohol should be avoided, regardless of the cause. If there is an underlying disease, a therapy of the underlying disease is carried out. In Parkisnon’s disease the drug L-Dopa helps to relieve the symptoms.Neuroleptics are prescribed for Tourette’s syndrome.
Unfortunately, the treatment options for ALS are very limited. The only drug that has a positive effect on the course of the disease is riluzole. In addition, physio- and occupational therapy improves the quality of life.
In case of a magnesium deficiency, the intake of additional magnesium and a balanced diet alleviates the symptoms. Magnesium can also be taken in case of muscle twitching due to other diseases. However, this should be discussed with the doctor.
In addition, stimulating substances such as caffeine, drugs and alcohol should be avoided, regardless of the cause. If there is an underlying disease, a therapy of the underlying disease is carried out. In Parkisnon’s disease the drug L-Dopa helps to relieve the symptoms.
Neuroleptics are prescribed for Tourette’s syndrome. Unfortunately, the therapy options for ALS are very limited. The only drug that has a positive effect on the course of the disease is riluzole.
In addition, physio- and occupational therapy improves the quality of life. A magnesium deficiency causes muscle twitching. Classically, these occur in the calves.
The symptoms range from muscle twitches to real cramps, in which the muscles no longer relax by themselves. The muscle cramps occur at night or during sports when the muscles are under excessive strain. But muscle twitches can also occur in the hand due to a magnesium deficiency.
The symptoms can be alleviated by taking additional magnesium in the form of tablets or powder. Since muscle twitching is by definition involuntary, we cannot influence muscle twitches when they occur. Therefore, one should concentrate on preventing the muscle twitches.
Relaxation techniques such as yoga or autogenic training can help here. Furthermore, stimulating substances should be avoided. In case of a serious underlying disease, the appropriate medication and therapies should be taken.
Although this usually does not completely prevent muscle twitches, the symptoms are significantly reduced. This could be helpful for you: Breathing exercises to relax – that really helps!
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