Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS): Understanding the Disease

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, commonly known as ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease, is a progressive neurological disorder that affects motor neurons in the brain, brainstem, and spinal cord. These neurons are responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movement, and when they become damaged or die, the muscles gradually weaken and atrophy.

What Happens to the Body in ALS?

As the disease progresses, patients experience increasing muscle weakness and loss of coordination. Over time, this leads to paralysis, often beginning in the limbs and eventually affecting the entire body. The term "ALS" comes from the hardening or "freezing" of the muscles due to the loss of motor function.

Common Symptoms Beyond Physical Paralysis

In addition to the loss of mobility, ALS can cause bulbar symptoms such as difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) and trouble speaking (dysarthria), which may result in choking or coughing while drinking fluids. Some patients may also experience loss of bladder and bowel control as the disease advances.

Preserved Cognitive Function

Despite the physical decline, patients with ALS typically retain their sensory perception, memory, and intellectual abilities throughout the course of the illness. This means that while the body may fail, the mind often remains sharp and fully aware.

Who Is Most Affected by ALS?

ALS is most commonly diagnosed in individuals over the age of 40, with the risk increasing as people get older. It is more prevalent in middle-aged and elderly populations, and while it can affect anyone, certain genetic and environmental factors may play a role in its development.

Progression of the Disease

The onset of ALS is usually slow and subtle, with symptoms worsening gradually over time. The disease is characterized by its progressive nature, meaning that symptoms do not improve and tend to become more severe as motor neurons continue to degenerate.