Understanding the signs and symptoms of ALS: Know the disease better

Understanding the signs and symptoms of ALS: Know the disease better

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a degenerative disorder that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. This disease is progressive in nature, meaning it worsens over time, ultimately leading to the loss of voluntary muscle control and death.

Early signs of ALS

The early signs of ALS may vary from person to person, making it difficult to diagnose the disease at an early stage. However, here are a few common signs and symptoms to watch out for:

• Weakness in limbs
• Twitching or cramping of muscles
• Difficulty in walking or doing routine tasks
• Difficulty in speaking or swallowing
• Muscle stiffness or spasticity

These symptoms may initially appear and disappear, but eventually become persistent, leading to a proper diagnosis.

Diagnosis of ALS

Diagnosing ALS is a complex process as there is no definitive test for it. The diagnosis is usually made by taking into account the medical history of the patient along with a comprehensive physical and neurological examination.

Further, doctors may also perform tests such as electromyography (EMG), nerve conduction velocity (NCV) test, and MRI to rule out other possibilities and confirm the diagnosis of ALS.

Treatment of ALS

Unfortunately, there is no known cure for ALS currently, leaving treatment limited to manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life for the patient. A team approach is usually adopted in treating the disease, involving physicians, social workers, occupational and physical therapists, speech and language pathologists, and nutritionists.

Patients with more advanced disease eventually require supportive measures like breathing support and feeding tubes to help manage their symptoms and maintain their quality of life.

Conclusion

In conclusion, ALS is a rare disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to the loss of voluntary muscle control and eventually death. Early diagnosis and management of the symptoms can help improve the quality of life of the patient. If you suspect you or someone you know may have ALS, it is crucial to consult a doctor as soon as possible.

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