ALS

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder. It is characterized by the degeneration of motor neurons, which are the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movement. As these neurons deteriorate and die, the ability to initiate and control muscle movements is gradually lost. This leads to muscle weakness, atrophy, and eventual paralysis. Although the exact cause of ALS is not fully understood, it may involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

The onset of ALS is typically between the ages of 40 and 70, and the disease affects men more frequently than women. Early symptoms can include muscle twitching, cramping, or stiffness, as well as difficulty with speech, swallowing, or limb coordination. As ALS progresses, it can cause severe physical disabilities, and most patients succumb to respiratory failure within 3 to 5 years after the onset of symptoms due to the weakness of the muscles involved in breathing. There is currently no cure for ALS, and treatment focuses on managing symptoms, maintaining patient comfort, and prolonging independence and quality of life.