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32 years
I felt like my right foot is paralyzed and then back to normal but very weak, and after 2 weeks the other foot is growing the same symptoms, and I have continuous cramps.. Pls advise
Oct 15, 2014

Dr. Zakia Dimassi Pediatrics
The evaluation of a complaint of weakness requires that the physician obtains detailed history and performs an adequate neurologic exam (where basic neurologic functions are assessed). In the history, it is important to determine exactly what the patient means by "weak"; what are the specific muscle groups that are weak; whether there are associated findings with the weakness; and what has been the timing of onset of the weakness. Additionally, family history, the presence or absence of systemic signs and symptoms and the association of the weakness with other symptoms (such as pain) are relevant. Additionally, information about exposure to medications or toxins and potential exposure to infectious agents may be relevant. Specialized tests will be selected according to the sum of findings on history and physical exam.
As such, you do need to be evaluated by a physician.
Your symptoms may fit into a heterogeneous group of muscle diseases known as periodic paralyses (PP); these are characterized by episodes of flaccid (loss of muscle tone) muscle weakness occurring at irregular intervals. Most of the conditions are hereditary.
All periodic paralyses (PPs) are characterized by episodic weakness. Strength is normal between attacks. Fixed weakness may develop later in some forms. Most patients with primary PP develop symptoms before the third decade.
According to your symptoms and age group, we most likely think of thyrotoxic periodic paralyses (TPP), which is most common in adults aged 20-40 years. It a condition featuring attacks of muscle weakness in the presence of hyperthyroidism (overactivity of the thyroid gland). Hypokalemia (a decreased potassium level in the blood) is usually present during attacks and is also responsible for producing muscle cramps. Hyperinsulinemia (especially in obese individuals who develop insulin resistance whereby their tissues no longer respond to insulin by increasing their use of glucose), a carbohydrate load, and exercise are important in precipitating paralytic attacks. Attacks last hours to days.
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