Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. These neurons control voluntary muscle movements such as walking, speaking, swallowing, and breathing. As the disease progresses, motor neurons degenerate and die, leading to muscle weakness, twitching, atrophy, and eventually paralysis[1].
Key Facts:
- Cause: The exact cause of ALS is unknown. Most cases are sporadic, but about 5–10% are familial, linked to genetic mutations such as in the SOD1 gene[2].
- Symptoms: Early signs include muscle weakness, cramps, twitching, slurred speech, and difficulty swallowing. As ALS advances, it affects mobility, speech, and breathing[3].
- Diagnosis: Diagnosis involves clinical evaluation, electromyography (EMG), nerve conduction studies, and ruling out other conditions[4].
- Progression: ALS is typically fatal within 2 to 5 years of symptom onset, although some individuals live longer. It does not usually affect cognitive functions, though some may develop frontotemporal dementia (FTD-ALS)[1].
- Treatment: There is no cure, but FDA-approved medications like riluzole and edaravone may slow progression. Supportive care includes physical therapy, speech therapy, and respiratory support[1].
For more detailed information, you can explore resources from:
- Mayo Clinic[3]
- The ALS Association[5]
- CDC National ALS Registry[2]
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)[1]
References
[2] www.cdc.gov
[5] www.als.org