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Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, is a disease of the motor nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. It causes progressive loss of motor control.
Basic Info
Symptoms
Symptoms usually do not develop until after age 50. Persons with ALS have a loss of muscle strength and coordination th...
Causes
In about 10% of cases, ALS is caused by a genetic defect. In other cases, the cause of the nerve deterioration is unkno...
Tests
A neuromuscular exam indicates weakness, often beginning in one area (such as shoulders or hips. There may be muscle tr...
Treatments
There is no known cure for ALS. The first drug treatment for the disease is a medicine called riluzole. Riluzole may pr...
Alternative Therapies
Emotional support is vital in coping with the disorder, because mental functioning is not affected. Groups such as the ...
Complications
Loss of ability to care for self; Inhaling food or fluid; Pneumonia; Respiratory failure (see adult respiratory distres...
Doctor Specialties
Call your health care provider if symptoms suggest ALS, particularly if there is a family history of the disorder. Call...
Basic Info
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