TNI Logo

ALS Q&A

What is ALS?

ALS, commonly called Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a neurodegenerative disease that affects motor neurons nerve cells in your brain and spinal cord. 

With ALS, the motor neurons deteriorate and die over time, preventing the brain from sending the signals that control voluntary muscle movements. About 66% of people with ALS have classical ALS, which affects the upper and lower motor neurons. 

The upper motor neurons in your brain and spinal cord transmit messages to the lower motor neurons. The lower motor neurons in the brainstem and spinal cord receive upper neuron messages and direct muscle movements. 

Less common forms of ALS include progressive bulbar palsy, which mainly affects the upper and lower motor neurons in the mouth and throat; progressive muscular atrophy in the lower motor neurons; and primary lateral sclerosis in the upper motor neurons.

What causes ALS?

Up to 95% of all ALS cases are known as sporadic ALS, with no known cause. It happens randomly, with no obvious risk factors and no genetic influence. 

Around 5% of cases are familial ALS, which occurs in people with ALS in their immediate family. With familial ALS, either your mother or father (or, rarely, both) have ALS as well. 

What are the symptoms of ALS?

ALS symptoms include:

 

  • Muscle twitching
  • Muscle cramps
  • Muscle stiffness
  • Muscle weakness
  • Slurred speech
  • Difficulty chewing and swallowing
  • Frequent stumbling or falls
  • Breathing problems 
  • Difficulty walking or standing
  • Difficulty using limbs

 

ALS can have mental and emotional effects as well. Some people with ALS become depressed or anxious as they lose their ability to function normally. About 20% of people with ALS also experience dementia. 

How is ALS diagnosed?

ALS diagnosis starts with a physical exam, neurological exam, and medical history review. The team usually conducts lab tests, electromyogram (EMG) and nerve conduction tests to evaluate muscles and nerves, and imaging tests like MRI scans. 

 

The Neurology Institute performs most tests on-site.

How is ALS treated?

 

To treat ALS, several specialists coordinate to help relieve your symptoms and delay the progression of the disease. 

 

The Neurology Institute has all of these specialists in one place, including neurologists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, behavioral health specialists, and other medical experts to help you have the best quality of life. 

 

Call The Neurology Institute office nearest you or click the online scheduler to book your ALS assessment now.