ALS Frequently Asked Questions
What is ALS?
ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness and loss of voluntary movement.
How is ALS diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves neurological exams, electromyography (EMG), nerve conduction studies, and ruling out other conditions.
What are the early symptoms of ALS?
Early symptoms may include muscle twitching, weakness in the limbs, difficulty speaking, or trouble swallowing.
Is there a cure for ALS?
Currently, there is no cure for ALS, but treatments and therapies can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
What functions are usually not affected by ALS?
Involuntary muscles, such as those that move the bowel and stomach, are usually not affected. The muscles that move the eyes are not affected.
What is the target age group of ALS?
ALS affects all age groups and both sexes, but the disease usually strikes adults between 35 and 65 years old.
Are there ALS specific therapists?
Yes. The ALS Association designated Centers of Excellence, Muscular Dystrophy Association-sponsored clinics, and The Les Turner ALS Foundation provide information regarding specialists throughout the country. You can find an ALS clinic near you or contact your nearest medical center’s neurology department.
Should I avoid sick people?
Yes. People living with ALS have weakened bodies and are more susceptible to illness. Recovery can also take longer due to the constant physical stress of ALS. If you work or live in an environment with frequent exposure to illness, discuss this with your doctors.
What is ROADS?
ROADS (Rasch-Built Overall ALS Disability Scale) is a mathematically derived self-reported disability scale that may improve sensitivity in ALS clinical trials. It includes 28 daily activity questions rated from 0–2, helping measure functional changes more precisely.
Why is ALS also referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease?
ALS became widely known when the career of Hall of Fame Yankees first baseman Lou Gehrig was cut short by the disease in 1939. He passed away in 1941.