What is ALS?
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also called Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a rare neurological condition in which the nerve cells that control voluntary muscle movement deteriorate. ALS is just one of the conditions in a group of disorders known as motor neuron diseases.
ALS affects nerve cells in the brain, spinal cord, and muscles. As these nerves degenerate, the brain cannot send signals through the spinal cord to the muscles.
ALS is a progressive disease with no known cure or treatment to stop or reverse the condition. At NeuroCare of Texas, Dr. Ata is involved in clinical trials and works to advocate for your health, while advancing neurological research.
What causes ALS?
Though a specific cause of ALS has not been found, recent advances in research have shown a possible involvement of gene mutation, chemical imbalance, disorganized immune response, and protein mishandling.
In 5-10% of cases, ALS is inherited from a family member. For those with genetic ties to ALS, children have a 50% likelihood of developing ALS themselves.
ALS symptoms typically appear more often in men between the ages of 40 and 60. However, after the age of 70, men and women have an equal risk of developing the disease.
What are the symptoms of ALS?
Early signs and symptoms of ALS include:
- Difficulty walking or doing normal activities
- Tripping and falling
- Weakness in legs, ankles, or feet
- Weakness or clumsiness in your hands
- Slurred speech
- Trouble swallowing
- Muscle cramps and twitching in your arms, shoulders, and tongue
How is ALS diagnosed?
Dr. Ata performs a thorough physical examination and learns about all of your symptoms when taking down your medical history. If he suspects ALS, further testing will be needed to rule out similar neurological conditions.
Testing involves electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies to test your muscles and nerves, MRI and X-rays to check for the presence of disc herniation or spinal tumors, and laboratory testing to rule out infections.
Early symptoms of ALS can mimic other neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis and multifocal motor neuropathy.
How is ALS treated?
ALS treatment includes a combination of medications, physical therapy, nutritional advice, speech therapy, and breathing support.
Dr. Ata has two decades of experience helping patients with ALS, which is the expertise you need on your side. Call Dr. Ata or schedule a consultation online today.
