Definition: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurological disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, resulting in muscle weakness and impaired physical functioning.
1 | What is amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)?
Answer: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurological disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, resulting in muscle weakness and impaired physical functioning.
2 | What are the symptoms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)?
Answer: Symptoms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) may include muscle weakness, muscle twitching, cramps, difficulty speaking, difficulty swallowing, and difficulty breathing.
3 | What are the causes of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)?
Answer: The exact cause of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is not known, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
4 | What are the risk factors for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)?
Answer: Risk factors for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) may include age, gender, family history, and exposure to certain toxins or viruses.
5 | How is amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) diagnosed?
Answer: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is usually diagnosed based on a physical exam and medical history, as well as laboratory tests and imaging studies.
6 | How is amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) treated?
Answer: Treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is aimed at slowing the progression of the disease and managing symptoms. Treatment may include medications, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and respiratory therapy.
7 | What are the complications of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)?
Answer: Complications of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) may include respiratory failure, pneumonia, depression, and malnutrition.
8 | How can amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) be prevented?
Answer: Since the exact cause of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is not known, there is no known way to prevent the disease.
9 | What is the prognosis for patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)?
Answer: The prognosis for patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) varies depending on the individual, but most will eventually need assistance with activities of daily living and will require the use of a wheelchair.
10 | What is the life expectancy for someone with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)?
Answer: The life expectancy for someone with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) varies depending on the individual, but on average is 2 to 5 years from diagnosis. In some cases, life expectancy may be longer.