What is ALS?

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), often known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a neurodegenerative illness that affects the nerve cells that regulate the voluntary movement and speech. When ALS strikes, the neurons that govern voluntary movement are destroyed, leading muscles to become weaker at first and eventually completely nonfunctional over time as a result of the disease. Everyone, regardless of age, can be affected by the condition however it often affects individuals who are at least 55 years of age. Men are somewhat more likely than women to be affected by this condition.

Unfortunately, the cause of Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS) is yet unknown. Approximately 5 to 10% of cases are inherited; however, new research has revealed that not everyone who is genetically predisposed to ALS will get the condition. An individual who is vulnerable to ALS appears to develop the disease only after coming into touch with a trigger in his or her surroundings. While the exact causes are unknown, the following are probably environmental factors:

    • Toxins/pesticide exposure

    • Geographic locations

    • Viruses

    • Alcohol and tobacco use, as well as sports and exercise, have also been linked to ALS.

Symptoms

ALS is a disease that begins in the extremities (hands, feet, or limbs) and progresses throughout the body. The symptoms can be highly distressing as a result of this, making even the most basic tasks difficult. The following are the first indications of ALS:

  • Clumsiness – Holding items becomes difficult due to weaker muscles in the hands and feet. It's possible that tripping and falling may become more prevalent.

  • Swallowing and even keeping one's head up becomes difficult as a result of head and neck issues. Slurred speech occurs.

  • Mobility problems – Walking and doing numerous everyday activities are difficult when the legs, feet, or ankles are weak.

  • Muscle twitches – Cramping muscles in the arms, shoulders, and the tongue can cause involuntary twitching of these muscles, which can exacerbate other symptoms.

Treatment Alternatives

At this time, there is no treatment for Lou Gehrig's disease, but a comprehensive approach provides the best chance of long-term survival and quality of life possible. There are several treatment options available, including:

  • Physical treatment – Because ALS causes muscular atrophy, exercise is an effective approach to slow the course of the illness. Low-impact activities (walking, swimming, etc.) can assist preserve strength while also enhancing general health when done under the supervision of a physical therapist.

  • Occupational therapy – An occupational therapist can assist people with ALS in continuing to do routine tasks like tying their shoes and climbing stairs. Occupational therapists can also prescribe the use of wheelchairs, ramps, and other assistive equipment to help patients maintain their freedom.

  • Drugs – People with ALS administer a wide range of medications. Some relieve muscular cramps, saliva production, stiffness, and involuntary emotional outbursts by reducing symptom severity. Others attempt to cure ALS itself by decreasing neuronal damage and delaying the disease's gradual deterioration. Rilutek (riluzole) is one such drug that has been found to extend ALS survival by a few months, which is amazing accomplishment considering that survival is generally two to five years following diagnosis.