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2 results

  • Chapter 7 - Weakness

  • from Section 2 - Common Neurologic Presentations: A Symptom-Based Approach
  • Edited by Thomas P. Campbell, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, Kevin M. Kelly, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh
  • Book:
    Handbook of Emergency Neurology
    Published online:
    10 January 2024
    Print publication:
    17 August 2023, pp 84-93

  • Summary

    Weakness is often a very complicated ED presenting complaint. A detailed history and physical examination, and diligent search for etiology, are required. First, the clinician must elucidate true weakness versus fatigue. Fatigue is best defined as a decrease in the ability to perform motor functions. Fatigue may be the complaint for a broad differential diagnosis, including acute coronary syndrome, anemia, chronic inflammatory diseases, dehydration, hypoglycemia or other electrolyte derangements, adrenal insufficiency, a variety of infections, pulmonary disorders, medication side effects, and depression. These disorders are characterized by a lack of true muscular weakness on examination. True muscular weakness is not painful, and pain should guide the examiner to other etiologies such as fibromyalgia or polymyalgia rheumatica.