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Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Medical Questions » Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
| Name: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis |
| Also known as: Lou Gehrig Disease |
| Rare form of motor neuron disease (see separate entry) that affects the nerves that supply the muscles of the body. Sometimes known as Lou Gehrig disease after a 1930s American baseballer who developed the condition. |
Causes of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Absolute cause unknown, but may run in families, and results in a steadily progressive degeneration of the motor nerves in the body. |
Symptoms of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Muscle weakness that usually starts in the hands or feet, muscle cramps and twitches, difficulty in swallowing and talking, drooling of saliva, inability to cough effectively, reduced tongue movement, and progressive weakness up the arms and legs. Eventually the muscles used for breathing are involved. |
Tests for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Electrical tests of the motor nerves to determine how well they are functioning, and a nerve biopsy. |
Treatment for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
No cure available, and treatment is aimed at relieving muscle spasm, assisting feeding, preventing infections, aiding breathing and making the patient as comfortable as possible. Physiotherapy on a very regular basis is essential.
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Complications of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis of its treatment
Lung infections such as pneumonia develop, and often lead to death. |
Likely Outcome of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Steadily progressive to death within three to five years. |
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