AMYOTROPHIC LATERAL SCLEROSIS Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is an incurable disease that affects the workings of the neurons in the body that control voluntary muscles.
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Explained
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is an incurable disease that affects the workings of the neurons in the body that control voluntary muscles. It is also widely known as either Lou Gehrig’s disease or motor neurone disease.
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Thibaut De Roux
THE ALS THERAPY DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE (ALS TDI) RESEARCHES NEW POTENTIAL TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR PEOPLE DIAGNOSED WITH ALS.
EARLY SYMPTOMS The early stages of ALS are characterised by progressive weakening of the muscles, by the onset of twitching in the muscles and stiffness. Symptoms can begin in the limbs, or the disease can present initially with difficulties in swallowing or speaking.
PROGNOSIS As there is currently no known or available cure for ALS, the progression of the disease can only be slowed down rather than halted altogether. As the muscles begin to weaken beyond repair, patients eventually succumb to death through being unable to perform basic actions such as speaking, moving, swallowing and breathing.
TREATMENTS There are various treatments available that are aimed at slowing the progression or managing the symptoms of ALS. These include the drug riluzole, which has been shown to extend life expectancy by several months.
Thibaut De Roux
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You can learn more about the ALS TDI by visiting the blog of Thibaut de Roux.