Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

What is ALS?

ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a progressive neurological disorder that affects motor neurons. Motor neurons are nerve cells that send signals from the brain and spinal cord to muscles. When motor neurons are damaged, they can no longer send signals to muscles, which leads to muscle weakness, twitching, and atrophy (wasting away).

ALS is a fatal disease, meaning that there is no cure. However, there are treatments that can help to slow the progression of the disease and relieve symptoms. The average life expectancy after diagnosis is 3-5 years, but some people with ALS live for 10 years or more.

What are the symptoms of ALS?

The symptoms of ALS can vary depending on which motor neurons are affected. However, some of the most common symptoms include:

• Muscle weakness
• Muscle twitching
• Muscle atrophy
• Difficulty swallowing
• Difficulty speaking
• Difficulty breathing
• Cognitive problems
• Behavioral changes

What causes ALS?

The exact cause of ALS is unknown. However, it is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some of the risk factors for ALS include:

• Age: ALS is more common in people over the age of 50.
• Family history: People with a family history of ALS are more likely to develop the disease.
• Certain occupations: People who work in certain occupations, such as farming, construction, and military service, are more likely to develop ALS.
• Exposure to certain toxins: Exposure to certain toxins, such as lead and mercury, has been linked to an increased risk of ALS.

How is ALS diagnosed?

There is no single test that can diagnose ALS. However, a diagnosis can be made based on a patient's symptoms, a physical examination, and a series of tests, such as:

• Electromyography (EMG)
• Nerve conduction studies
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Genetic testing

How is ALS treated?

There is no cure for ALS. However, there are treatments that can help to slow the progression of the disease and relieve symptoms. Some of the most common treatments include:

• Medication
• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Speech therapy
• Respiratory care