ALS: Loss of Muscle Control, No Known Cure

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), often referred to as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease impacting nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. This condition leads to a gradual loss of muscle control, eventually resulting in paralysis. Individuals with ALS may experience increasing difficulties with mobility, speaking, swallowing, and breathing.

The precise etiology of ALS is not fully understood, although medical experts note that a small fraction of cases have a genetic basis. The disease typically manifests in midlife, affecting individuals between 40 and 60 years old, and is slightly more prevalent in men.

Early symptoms can be subtle, often starting with muscle twitching or weakness in an extremity. As the disease progresses, muscles lose their ability to act and react correctly, leading to diminished strength and coordination. Eventually, the muscles vital for respiration can become paralyzed, making respiratory failure the most common cause of death for those with ALS.

Diagnosing ALS is challenging due to the absence of a definitive test. Doctors typically rely on physical examinations, laboratory tests, and imaging to identify potential indicators. While there is no cure, the drug riluzole is approved for treatment and may prolong survival in the initial stages.

Management strategies for ALS include medications to control symptoms and assistive devices such as feeding tubes, braces, wheelchairs, and communication systems. The drug Relyvrio was withdrawn from the U.S. market in 2024.