| Subject | Contents |
| Definition | Fasciculations of muscle are defined as fine muscle movements or twitching of a small area of muscle. |
| Alternative Names | Muscle fasciculation; Muscle twitching |
| Considerations | Muscle twitching is the result of minor local muscle contractions '>muscle contractions or the uncontrollable twitching of a single muscle group served by a single motor nerve fiber or filament. Muscle twitches are minor and often go unnoticed. Some are common and normal, while others indicate a neurologic disorder. |
| Common Causes | Benign , nonpathologic fasciculations (not caused by disease or disorders) Often affect the eyelids, calf, or thumb Normal and quite common, often triggered by stress or anxiety A diet deficiency Drug overdose Drug side effect (such as diuretics, corticosteroids and estrogens) Exercise Symptoms suggestive of a neurological cause of fasciculations include: Atrophy of muscle Weakness Other findings of nerve dysfunction Neurological illnesses where fasciculations are seen include: Chronic denervation of muscle due to disc compression of nerve exiting the spinal cord ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease) Spinal muscular atrophy Muscular dystrophy Myopathy |
| Home Care | There is usually no treatment necessary. |
| Call your health care provider if | Call your health care provider if there are prolonged or persistent muscle twitches. |
| What to expect at your health care provider's office | The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed. Medical history questions documenting your fasciculations in detail may include: When did you first notice the twitching? How long does it last? How often do you experience twitching? What muscles are affected? Is it always the same location Are you pregnant ? What other symptoms are also present? Diagnostic tests vary depending on the suspected cause. There is often no need to treat this symptom. After seeing your health care provider: If a condition was diagnosed related to fasciculations, you may want to note this in your personal medical record. |
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