Could I have MS or is it something different?

MS, ALS or something else?

• For the past few years ive been experiencing stabbing pains in my limbs, feet, hands and neck and muscle twitches everywhere. Here are my other symptoms -headaches -stomach problems -tingling -eye pain -frequent urination -muscle weakness Please help im only 18 and have been told i have a low b12 level of 203, i also suffer from great anxiety could it be these two things linked that are causing these symptoms or could i have MS or ALS? What are the chances of an 18 year old girl having ALS or MS? I have had loads of blood tests, an abdominal ultrasound, a chest xray and they all came back normal apart from a low b12? Please help im so scared!!!

• Answer:

  It's very, very unlikely that you've got MS or ALS at your age. And the symptoms don't really fit either of the conditions. It sounds to me like your anxiety is causing physical symptoms, which is more common than you'd think (it's called psychsomatic illness). And then worrying about the symptoms makes you more anxious, forming a vicious cycle. I think it would be a good idea for you to try some stress-reducing techniques. As well as trying to cut back on things that make you stressed, you could join a yoga, pilates or tai chi class. Some people find that gentle exercise like swimming or jogging relaxes them. Or you could ask your GP if they can recommend any relaxation techniques. You might also find some therapy helpful. Having someone to confide in is useful even to people without mental illnesses. Consider it, especially if you've not got someone you feel you can talk to. And eat some B12-rich foods, to get your levels up! Hope you feel better soon.