lihasnykäystä

Lihasnykäys, also known as fasciculation, refers to involuntary, fine muscle twitches that can be observed under the skin. These twitches are caused by spontaneous firing of a motor unit, which is a single motor neuron and all the muscle fibers it innervates. Lihasnykäykset are typically harmless and can be triggered by various factors.

Common causes of benign lihasnykäys include fatigue, stress, anxiety, caffeine intake, and certain medications. These twitches are often transient and disappear once the underlying cause is addressed. They can occur in any muscle group, but are most commonly noticed in the eyelids, face, arms, and legs.

While most lihasnykäykset are benign, persistent or widespread twitches, especially when accompanied by muscle weakness, pain, or atrophy, can sometimes indicate an underlying neurological condition. Conditions such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), spinal muscular atrophy, or peripheral nerve disorders can manifest with fasciculations.

Diagnosis of lihasnykäys usually involves a medical history, physical examination, and sometimes further investigations like electromyography (EMG) or nerve conduction studies to assess muscle and nerve function. Treatment focuses on identifying and managing the underlying cause. For benign fasciculations, reassurance and lifestyle modifications like stress reduction and moderation of caffeine intake are often sufficient. If an underlying neurological condition is diagnosed, specific medical treatment will be initiated.