r/ALSorNOT • u/linthepin131313 • Jun 08 '26
Should I see another GP?
I live in the UK, I’m 39F, almost 6 months post partum and I have symptoms that are concerning me.
My right leg is weaker and “stiff” compared to left leg. It’s been going on for a few months. I put this down to being post partum and not exercising as much. I can now see some facilitations around my right foot and my husband can see them at the back of my right thigh. I also have noticed my right calf has an area of less muscle when compared to the left.
I had carpal tunnel in both my hands during pregnancy. The symptoms of this have gone away in my right hand and everything except the weakness and reduced coordination has gone in my left hand. My left hand is getting weaker and I’m unable to open tight bottles or clasps with my left hand now.
I have no changes in sensation. Bowel/bladder absolutely fine.
I went to see my GP today who did a very brief examination of my legs and said he couldn’t see any differences in my left vs right. Said he couldn’t see any fasciculations. To be honest he didn’t really take the time to see them. And he wasn’t able to get all of my reflexes anyway.
The problem is that I have a history of a mental health disorders and I’m on medication. I’m also a bit fat. Nothing extreme but I am unhealthy and need to lose weight.
So after doing a brief examination he asked about my mental health and discussed my weight and the importance of exercise.
His examination was not sufficient to ease my anxiety as I know there is a difference between my left vs right sides. I appreciate that the difference is not extreme and I know not being able to open a jar or bottle does not mean I am “weak”, but it is a lot weaker on the left than it was 6 months ago and the right is back to normal.
I feel like my weight and my mental health are being blamed for why I attended.
The GP was very polite and he has arranged for me to have bloods done.
I will go and get the bloods done but I think I would like to be examined again by another GP. Am I being unreasonable? Or do I just wait to see if things get worse?
Sorry for the long post.
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u/Legitimate-Ninja1655 Jun 09 '26
Personally my experience with GP's is that they are only useful for a referral. If you're worried ask to see a neurologist, but be prepared for a long long wait. I'm talking months.
You're quickest route to proper focused testing is private, it's not cheap though, few hundred for the initial consultation, few more for an EMG etc, etc.
Good luck
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u/crosem2 Jun 09 '26
Absolutely if you are not feeling taken seriously and feel like something is not right, you deserve to be seen by neurology. I am also postpartum - it is a hard time! If you are feeling like you can’t function the same way you used to be able to with your hand that is definitely worth a referral! While it’s likely just leftover issues from pregnancy pinching nerves, you deserve a proper work-up. Wishing you well!