What are the Symptoms of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis?
November 7, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects the motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. The symptoms of ALS typically start gradually and worsen over time. Common symptoms of ALS include:
- Muscle Weakness: Muscle weakness is one of the earliest and most prominent symptoms of ALS. It can begin in one limb or in the muscles responsible for speaking, swallowing, or breathing.
- Muscle Twitching: Muscle twitches, or fasciculations, are common in ALS and may precede muscle weakness.
- Difficulty Speaking: As the disease progresses, individuals with ALS may have difficulty speaking, including slurred speech or difficulty pronouncing words.
- Difficulty Swallowing: Swallowing difficulties, known as dysphagia, can occur as the muscles involved in swallowing become affected.
- Muscle Atrophy: As motor neurons degenerate, muscles waste away, resulting in muscle atrophy, which can be visually apparent.
- Cramps and Spasticity: ALS can cause muscle cramps and stiffness (spasticity).
- Balance and Coordination Problems: Some individuals with ALS may experience difficulty with balance and coordination.
- Breathing Problems: As respiratory muscles weaken, breathing difficulties can occur, leading to shortness of breath and decreased lung function.
- Fatigue: Generalized fatigue and weakness are common as muscle function deteriorates.
- Pseudobulbar Affect (PBA): PBA can cause uncontrollable laughing or crying that may be unrelated to one’s emotional state.
It’s important to note that the symptoms of ALS can vary from person to person, and the rate of progression can differ as well. ALS typically leads to severe disability, affecting an individual’s ability to perform everyday activities, communicate, and eventually breathe independently. ALS does not affect a person’s cognitive function, and they remain mentally alert even as their physical abilities decline.
ALS is a progressive and incurable disease, and the exact cause is not fully understood. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. Various medications, therapies, and assistive devices can help individuals with ALS maintain function and comfort. A multidisciplinary approach involving neurologists, physical and occupational therapists, speech therapists, and other healthcare professionals is crucial in managing the complex needs of individuals with ALS.