What is ALS Disease?
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), more commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, is a progressive neurological disease that affects the motor nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. As these cells stop functioning, muscles progressively weaken and eventually become paralyzed. ALS is a fatal disorder, as there is no known cure available yet.
ALS affects approximately 20,000 to 30,000 people in the United States, with the risk of developing it increasing with age. People between 40 and 70 years old are more at risk and the average age at diagnosis is 55. Men are at a higher risk of developing ALS than women.
The Causes of ALS
The exact cause of ALS is still unknown. However, researchers believe that the disease is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. For the majority of cases, there’s no known specific cause. A small percentage of cases are inherited and are caused by mutations in certain genes.
Common Symptoms of ALS
The initial symptoms of ALS vary depending on the nerves that are affected. The most common symptoms include:
• Weakness or feeling of tiredness, especially in the arms and legs
• Twitching and cramping of muscles
• Uncontrollable periods of laughing and crying
• Slurred speech
• Difficulty feeding yourself, dressing, and using the toilet
Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prognosis
Doctors diagnose ALS by taking a patient’s medical history and conducting several medical tests and imaging scans. There is no definitive test for ALS, so doctors usually have to rule out other possibilities before making a diagnosis.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for ALS, and so treatment focuses on managing the symptoms and making the patient more comfortable. Treatment usually involves medications to reduce muscle cramps and spasticity, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and breathing support.
The prognosis for ALS is poor, as most patients die from respiratory failure within three to five years of diagnosis. However, some patients have been known to live with ALS for up to 10 years. It’s important to note that everyone’s experience is different and some patients may live with ALS longer than others.
Living with ALS
Living with ALS is a challenge, but it’s important to remember that most people living with ALS lead a full and active life. There are many adaptive devices and technologies available to help individuals retain their independence and continue living the life they love.
It’s also important to build a strong support system of family and friends. Having a good network of supportive people can make all the difference in managing ALS and maintaining quality of life. Additionally, there are many ALS organizations dedicated to providing support, information, and services to those living with the disease.