Answer :
Also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a degenerative disease of the spinal cord and brain.
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating neurological disorder characterized by the progressive degeneration of motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. This condition is also commonly referred to as Lou Gehrig's disease, named after the famous American baseball player Lou Gehrig, who was diagnosed with ALS in 1939.
Key features of ALS include:
Motor Neuron Degeneration: ALS primarily affects motor neurons, which are responsible for transmitting signals from the brain to muscles throughout the body. As these neurons degenerate, individuals with ALS experience a progressive loss of voluntary muscle control.
Muscle Weakness and Atrophy: Muscle weakness is one of the earliest symptoms of ALS. It can start in specific muscle groups and eventually spread throughout the body. As the disease progresses, muscles become atrophied (shrunken) due to lack of use.
Difficulty in Speaking, Swallowing, and Breathing: ALS can affect the muscles involved in speaking, swallowing, and even breathing, leading to significant communication and respiratory challenges. Many individuals with ALS eventually require assistive devices such as ventilators.
No Cure: Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for ALS. The disease is progressive and typically leads to severe disability and, eventually, respiratory failure. Treatment mainly focuses on managing symptoms, improving quality of life, and providing support for individuals and their families.
The exact cause of ALS is not fully understood, but both genetic and environmental factors may play a role. ALS is a debilitating and often fatal condition, underscoring the need for continued research and efforts to develop effective treatments and therapies for those affected by this disease.
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