General Information About ALS
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is a neurological disease in which muscles gradually weaken and waste away as a result of damage to the motor neurons that control voluntary muscle movements (walking, speaking, swallowing, etc.).
About 10% of cases are due to genetic (hereditary) factors. While the exact cause of the remaining 90% is unknown, environmental toxins and protein accumulations are thought to be effective.
Dropping objects from hands, stumbling while walking, muscle twitches (fasciculations), speech impairment, difficulty swallowing, and, in advanced stages, the weakening of respiratory muscles are the most prominent complaints.
ALS generally does not affect cognitive functions, intelligence, or senses such as sight, hearing, and touch. Patients remain fully awake and conscious despite physical limitations.
Following a neurological examination, a diagnosis is made by ruling out other diseases using EMG (Electromyography) tests that measure the electrical activity of muscles and nerves, blood tests, and MRI scans.
There is no completely curative treatment yet. However, quality of life and survival are increased with special medications that slow down motor neuron damage, respiratory support, physical therapy, and feeding tubes (PEG).
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
