Hello, I am a 23 year old male from Virginia. I have been experiencing progessive weakness and motor coordination problems on my right side (arm, hand and leg mostly) that seem to stem from other vauge symptoms of dizzyness, vertigo, numbness and panic episodes that first reared their head in May of 2007, right as I was about to graduate from college. I went to the ER on a few occassions, there finding nothing out of the ordinary. Originally suspecting MS, my neurologist has all but ruled that out with an MRI of the brain, EEG, and evoked potentials test of the upper and lower extremities. I have been on an antidepressant, Effexor which seems to have ended some of the more "MS"- like symptoms including the dizziness on standing, "emotional liability", burning sensation under the skin. For awhile I feared I would lose my vision from a possible optic neuritis and gradually fading vision. A check-up with a neuropothomolgist has ruled that out, and my vision has yet to deteriorate any more than what I'd first noticed.

However, the weakness and coordination problems have not abated, seem to be more prevelant and now I fear I have a MND (motor neuron disease). However, these issues are only noticable on my right side. My left, for all intents and purposes feels "normal". The two sides seem out of sync with one another. No one has commented on my gait or inability to perform any tasks. But playing the guitar and piano is more of a challenge than I remember it being. Despite this, I seem to be able to go a few weeks at a time functioning without noticing what is happening. I have the strength to lift weights like I've always been able too, but running feels awkward. My bones pop and crack much more frequently than before, specifically my ankles and wrists and I find myself wanting to stretch my arms and legs more often when I stand in place too long. My right arm feels like it's hanging limp unless it's holding onto something like the strap of a backpack.

I am seeing my neurologist next week and plan to request a EMG test. I recognize that I may come accross as somewhat of a hypochondriach, but I obviously do not want a diagnosis of ALS or any other MND. Still, I am the type of person who wishes for answers to begin to adjust accordingly. I have a great life, and if my time is much more limited than I thought, I don't want to waste another second. Limbo isn't a fun place to be, as I'm sure many of you can attest. Any other thoughts or suggestions for treatment or additional clarifiying questions would be most welcome. Thank you for you quick responses.

-John