Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord, leading to the gradual loss of voluntary muscle control.



As motor neurons degenerate and die, the brain can no longer initiate or control muscle movements, resulting in progressive muscle weakness, atrophy, spasticity, and eventually paralysis. Cognitive function is often preserved, though some individuals may experience frontotemporal dementia (FTD) features.



Key symptoms include:



Muscle twitching (fasciculations)



Progressive weakness in limbs, hands, or legs



Slurred speech and difficulty swallowing (bulbar involvement)



Breathing difficulties as respiratory muscles weaken



Uncontrolled emotional expression (pseudobulbar affect)



Types of ALS:



Sporadic ALS – 90–95% of cases, no clear genetic link



Familial ALS (fALS) – 5–10%, linked to mutations (e.g., SOD1, C9orf72, TARDBP)



Diagnosis is clinical and confirmed through:



EMG (electromyography)



MRI (to exclude other conditions)



Genetic testing (for familial cases)



There is currently no cure, but treatment focuses on symptom management:



Riluzole and edaravone – FDA-approved drugs that slow progression modestly



Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) and gastrostomy for advanced care



Multidisciplinary support: neurologists, physical/occupational therapists, speech therapists, palliative care



Average survival is 3–5 years after diagnosis, but some individuals live significantly longer.



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