Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) (Lou Gehrig's Disease)Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), commonly referred to as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a degenerative disease of the nervous system. ALS causes a gradual degeneration of the nerve cells in the brain, brain stem and spinal cord that control movement of the skeletal muscles, resulting in progressive weakness and loss of use of involved muscles. ALS may involve muscles of the limbs or trunk, as well as those used in speaking and swallowing. The loss of muscle function is determined by which motor neurons are involved. The pattern of muscle deterioration and the rate of progression can vary widely from person to person, however in most cases ALS results in respiratory muscle weakness that causes difficulty in breathing. Although there is an average two to three year survival rate, about 20% of patients may live much longer. People who live longer than five years can live for many years, although often much assistance is needed. Dr. Stephen Hawking, the physicist and author is one such survivor. SymptomsAt the onset of ALS, symptoms may not be recognized and can be overlooked. Some of the potential symptoms are:
Not all people experience the same symptoms, but progressive muscle weakness and paralysis usually occur in all ALS patients. Because ALS affects only motor neurons, the senses of sight, touch, hearing, and smell as well as mental functions remain intact. The heart and digestive system are also not affected. ALS is not a contagious disease and less than 10% of cases are hereditary. TreatmentThe cause of ALS is not completely understood but there is a great deal of new scientific understanding regarding the physiology of the disease. There are some experimental drugs being used to help slow or stop the progression of the disease. Rilutek ™ is the first FDA approved drug and has been reported to extend survival for a few months in ALS patients. When the breathing muscles in ALS patients become affected, patients will need permanent support to breathe. Some patients are candidates for nasal ventilation support, which can be easily applied with a facemask and used at home. Persons who are able to talk and do not have excessive oral secretions are the best candidates for nasal support. Since there are a number of ways to manage ALS symptoms, persons with ALS and their families should be given support and education. The goal is to manage the disease most effectively and allow for the highest quality of life possible, physically and emotionally. SupportThe ALS Association National Office "The ALS Association (ALSA) is the only national not-for-profit
voluntary health organization dedicated solely to the fight against
amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (often called Lou Gehrig's disease).
The mission of The ALS Association is to find a cure for and improve
living with ALS. The ALS Association seeks to promote awareness and understanding
of ALS and the work of The ALS Association by providing up-to-date
information and education materials to the ALS community…ALS
patients and families, caregivers, researchers and members in the
health care fields. The ALSA website is another component in the delivery of information specific to ALS. Our purpose is to provide accurate and timely information as well as a resource directory pointing to sources of information." ALS Northeast Ohio Chapter Akron ALS Support Group The Muscular Dystrophy Association There is a special section designated specifically for ALS patients
and their families on The Muscular Dystrophy Association website.
It provides easy to read information in a very easy to use format. "For more information about medical services available through
the MDA clinic, support groups, summer camp, or other services for
people and families affected by a neuromuscular disease in MDA's
program, please call: ALS Support Network |
content developed by Optimum Potential Ltd.
site designed and developed by MenagerieWeb