Persistent hand clumsiness
Muscle wasting
Twitching associated with weakness
Progressive slurred speech
Increasing difficulty swallowingConsult A Neurologist
A neurologist may be needed if the symptoms suggest a motor-neuron problem.
When Is It an Emergency?
ALS usually develops progressively rather than suddenly.
Seek emergency medical help if symptoms appear abruptly, particularly:
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Sudden weakness on one side
Sudden facial drooping
Sudden speech difficulty
Sudden severe breathing problems
Sudden inability to swallowTake Psychology Courses
Those symptoms may indicate a stroke or another acute medical emergency rather than ALS.
Can ALS Be Treated?
There is currently no cure for ALS, but treatment can help slow disease progression in some people, manage symptoms, and preserve function and quality of life.
Care may involve a multidisciplinary team including:
Neurologists
Physical therapists
Occupational therapists
Speech and swallowing specialists
Respiratory specialists
Nutrition professionalsConsult Online Doctors
Certain
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disease-modifying medications are available, including treatments targeted to specific genetic forms of ALS. For example, tofersen is approved for ALS associated with certain SOD1 mutations. ([NINDS][3])The Bottom LineNeurological Conditions
The earliest signs of Lou Gehrig’s
