Introduction
Weakness of legs and arms is a common neurological symptom among the patients who consult the Neurologists.
As this symptom can be caused by Stroke, Brain Cancer/ Tumour and Guillain-Barre syndrome, which are life-threatening conditions, patients who have this symptom are advised to immediately seek the advice of Neurologist.
What are the causes of weakness of legs and arms?
Stroke
The most common cause of this symptom is Stroke –weakness of legs and arms can be caused by blockage of the blood vessel in the brain or bleeding in the brain. Patients usually have other symptoms such as difficulty in speaking, numbness, dizziness (vertigo) and unsteadiness.
The symptoms of Stroke start suddenly, within a few minutes over half an hour.
Brain Tumour / Cancer
Tumour / Cancer can cause this symptom. Patients usually have headache and vomiting. The symptoms usually start gradually over a few weeks.
Cervical Spine Disorder
Cervical Disc Prolapse can cause weakness of legs and arms which usually starts gradually, over 1 – 3 months. This refers to a common condition whereby the disc (apart of the spine which is almost circular in shape, resembling the disc which we use in our computer), has moved backward and caused pressure on the spinal cord.
Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy refers to disorders of the nerves located at the upper and lower limbs. An uncommon type of Peripheral Neuropathy is Guillain-Barresyndrome (GBS), which is an important neurological disorder that presents with weakness of legs and arms over a few weeks.
GBS is most commonly triggered by a virus or bacterial infection. GBS is a life-threatening condition that can cause difficulty in breathing and death.
Muscle Disorders
Polymyositis, which is inflammation of the muscle, can cause weakness of legs and arms. Patients often have muscle pain.
Reduced blood level of potassium (Hypokalemia), one type of salt in our body, can also cause muscle weakness. This neurological disorder is associated with thyroid disorders.
Emotional Disorders
Weakness of legs and arms is a well-known symptom of emotional disorders such as Anxiety and Depression.
What will the Neurologist do for patients with weakness of legs and arms?
The Neurologist will perform physical examination, blood tests, Nerve conduction study / EMG, Lumbar Puncture and MRI scan of the brain / spine.
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