Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
On this page, you will find everything you are looking for regarding Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
What is ALS?
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a disease that affects the nerve cells responsible for muscle movement in both the upper and lower parts of the body. This disease causes nerve cells to stop functioning, causing nerves to lose the ability to stimulate specific muscles.
What are the symptoms of ALS?
The onset of ALS can be very subtle, so symptoms may be overlooked initially; however, they gradually evolve into noticeable weakness or atrophy.
Early symptoms include:
- Often, the first sign is difficulty performing simple tasks like buttoning a shirt, and symptoms typically start in the arms or legs, referred to as “limb-onset.”
- Muscle cramps in the arm, leg, shoulder, or tongue.
- Tight and stiff muscles (spasticity).
- Muscle weakness affecting the arm, leg, neck, or diaphragm.
- Slurred speech.
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing.
- Loss of mental functions such as thinking, remembering, understanding, and problem-solving.
- Individuals with ALS eventually lose the ability to breathe independently,requiring mechanical ventilation, and are at risk of pneumonia.
What causes ALS?
The cause of ALS is unknown. However, scientific evidence indicates that both genetics and environmental factors, such as exposure to toxins, infections, viruses, physical trauma, diet, and behavioral and occupational characteristics, play a role in neuron degeneration and the development of ALS.
How is ALS diagnosed?
A doctor will take a medical history and conduct a clinical examination. Additional procedures may be requested as needed, such as::
- Muscle and Imaging Tests:
- Electromyography (EMG): A recording technique that detects the electrical activityEMGof muscle fibers, which can assist in diagnosing ALS.
- Nerve Conduction Study (NCS): Measures the electrical activity of nerves and muscles by assessingNCSthe nerve’s ability to send a signal along the nerve or to muscles.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): A non-invasive procedure using magnetic fields and radioMRI)waves to produce detailed images of the brain and spinal cord.
- Blood and urine testsmay also be conducted.
- A musclebiopsy maybe performed.
What are thetreatment optionsfor ALS?
- Treatment is performed through multiple procedures or as needed and may include the following:
Treatments can help manage symptoms, prevent unnecessary complications, and facilitate living with the disease.
- Medications:
Doctors may prescribe medications to help manage disease symptoms.
- Physical and Occupational Therapy:
Physical therapy and special equipment can enhance patient independence and safety throughout the illness.
- Communication Support:
- Speech therapists can helpindividuals maintain communication abilities.
Planning and preparing small meals throughout the day that provide sufficient calories, fiber, and fluids, along with following advice on avoiding foods that are hard to swallow.
How can ALS be prevented?
The cause of ALS is unknown, and therefore, there is currently no method to prevent it.
What are the complications of ALS?
As the disease progresses, nerve cells stop functioning and die, and nerves lose the ability to stimulate specific muscles, leading to muscle weakness and eventually resulting in paralysis.
When should you see a doctor?
You should see a doctor if you have potential early symptoms of the disease, such as muscle weakness, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, or walking.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is there a similarity between stroke symptoms and ALS symptoms?
Yes, symptoms such as slurred speech may be similar.
Is there a direct genetic link to ALS?
