ALS Strikes 'Grey's Anatomy' Star, Highlighting Disease

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), commonly referred to as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative condition impacting motor neurons. These nerve cells are responsible for voluntary muscle movement, and their deterioration in ALS leads to a gradual loss of muscle control. This affects essential functions such as walking, talking, eating, and breathing.

Symptoms of ALS typically begin with muscle weakness that worsens over time. Individuals may experience difficulties with walking, hand or foot weakness, slurred speech, swallowing problems, muscle cramps, and even behavioral changes. The disease's progression can be distressing, as demonstrated by the late actor Eric Dane's public acknowledgment of his struggles.

Currently, ALS remains incurable, and treatments cannot halt its progression. However, various therapeutic approaches can help manage symptoms and improve the quality of life for patients. These include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, respiratory support, psychotherapy, and specific medications.

While the exact cause of ALS is unknown in most cases, approximately 10% of diagnoses are linked to genetic factors. Other risk factors include increasing age, with the disease being most prevalent between 60 and the mid-80s. While men are slightly more prone to developing ALS before age 65, this gender disparity diminishes after 70. Factors like smoking, toxin exposure, and military service have also been associated with an increased risk.