Diffuse Muscle Weakness

The goal of this guide is to provide information while awaiting evaluation with your doctor, or for additional information after you have seen him or her. Please keep in mind that this guide is not intended to replace a face-to-face evaluation with your doctor.

The diagnoses discussed are among the most common that could explain your symptoms, but the list is not exhaustive and there are many other possibilities. In addition, more than one condition may be present at the same time. For example, a person who feels weak because of poor conditioning could also have a thyroid condition.

First off, it's important to get emergency care if your symptoms sound like a dangerous condition or an immediate threat to your health.

Examples include

- Sudden weakness on one side of your body

- New diffuse weakness with fever or rash

- Sudden inability to move either or both legs

Are you experiencing any of these types of symptoms? Yes, I have one or more of these symptoms. No, I don't have these symptoms.

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Date Last Modified: 9/10/2008 Source: from Harvard Health Decision Guides, Harvard Health Publications, Copyright © 2007 by President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Used with permission of StayWell.

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