Tools and devices to support communication and mobility.Support for speech, swallowing, and nutrition.Physical therapy to reduce stiffness and discomfort and to maintain muscle strength.Other medications that address individual symptoms, such as muscle relaxants to ease cramps or drugs that decrease saliva production.Typically, the effects are limited, and may not be the right choice for everyone. A drug that slows progression of the disease: currently, these drugs do not reverse the damage already done to neurons but aim to provide protection against further damage and to slow the decline of physical function.Depending on symptoms and progression, a treatment plan may include: Treatment for ALS is often multi-disciplinary, with care from a range of specialties such as neurology, physical therapy, and social work. Current treatment approaches focus on managing symptoms and maintaining strength and quality of life. A diagnosis of ALS is generally reached through physical examination and a series of tests, often ruling out other conditions that have similar symptoms. The different ways in which people are affected and the different causes of the disease mean that ALS is not easy to diagnose. ![]() For the majority of ALS cases, however, there is no apparent family history, and it is not clear what the triggers are. Mutations in several different genes have been found to play a role in the disease. This is sometimes referred to as “familial” ALS. The causes of ALS are not fully understood but a mix of genetic and environmental triggers are thought to be involved.įor about 10% of people with ALS, there is a family history or other evidence of a genetic change that contributes to the onset and progression of ALS. The sequence of symptoms and the rate at which ALS progresses can be quite different however, all people with ALS experience progressive muscle weakness and over time, become unable to move, talk, swallow, and eventually breathe. Others may first notice a problem with speech or swallowing. The first sign for some people is weakness in the hands, arms, or legs, for example experiencing difficulty grasping a pen or stumbling. ![]() The way in which ALS begins and progresses is variable from person to person.
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