A Disruption Of Motor Neurons
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a neurological condition that impacts a person’s motor neurons. The nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that control various voluntary muscle movements are disrupted. Movements such as moving, talking, and chewing are affected. There is no cure for this disease but early diagnosis and treatment can help to control the symptoms.
Why does it happen?
There is no exact reason as to why Lou Gehrig’s disease occurs. However, there are possible risk factors such as genetics, White ethnicity, older men, and environmental factors. When the motor neurons deteriorate, no message or signal is sent to the muscles causing the muscle to become frail.
Signs and symptoms to expect
The first symptoms experienced are weakness and stiffness of the limb muscles. The symptoms of Lou Gehrig’s disease gradually deteriorate over time. Muscle cramps and twitching, loss of muscle control, dropping objects, falling, fatigue, and impaired speech can occur. In severe cases, one can experience difficulty with breathing and swallowing, weight loss, and paralysis. Mental health is also impacted causing the person to develop anxiety and depression.
Obtaining a diagnosis
There is no specific test that diagnoses ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease. The diagnosis is made based on the medical history, physical examination, and multiple tests. A physical examination includes a neurological examination where muscle tone, muscle strength, reflexes, and sensation are evaluated. Tests include blood and urine, imaging, electromyography, and nerve conduction tests. Sometimes a lumbar puncture or a muscle or nerve biopsy is carried out to rule out other diseases.
Finding ways to cope with ALS
Lou Gehrig’s disease has no cure but can be managed with various treatments to impede the development of the condition. The treatment of Lou Gehrig’s disease is a multidisciplinary approach where a team of healthcare professionals works together. The management includes medications, nutritional support, physical, occupational, and speech therapies, and breathing therapy. Currently, a benzothiazole and pyrazolone drug are approved for ALS treatment. Nutritional support is helpful to create a well-balanced diet and provides food options that are easy to swallow.
The purpose of various therapies
Physical activity like aerobic exercise can help keep the muscles robust and the heart healthy. Occupational therapy provides the patient with assisted devices such as a wheelchair to keep the patient ambulated. Speech therapy enhances a person’s verbal and non-verbal communication skills. Breathing difficulty can occur with time and breathing support like noninvasive ventilation through a mask can be of benefit.
Seek a consult
If experiencing weak and stiff muscles, regardless of other accompanying symptoms, seek medical consultation immediately. Lou Gehrig’s disease cannot be prevented but the progression of the symptoms is manageable. A team of healthcare professionals will work together to ensure the patient is receiving the best treatment and care.
