What is Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis?

A neurological condition known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Muscle control is lost as a result of ALS. Over time, the illness worsens.

In honor of the baseball star who was diagnosed with ALS, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is frequently referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease.  ALS frequently starts with speech slurring, difficulty swallowing, and muscle twitching in an arm or leg.

Affected muscles eventually make it difficult to move, speak, eat, or breathe. Individuals with ALS experience different symptoms. The damaged nerve cells determine which symptoms are present.

 Muscle weakness is typically the first symptom of ALS, and it progresses and gets worse with time. for instance, difficulty walking, falling, weakness in the feet, ankles, or legs Speech that is slurred or awkward, as well as hand weakness or swallowing issues.

How is Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Diagnosed?

ALS, also known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, can be challenging to identify in its early stages since its symptoms often resemble those of other illnesses.

Tests to rule out other diseases or assist in the diagnosis of ALS may include:

• A needle is placed through the skin into several muscles to produce an electromyogram (EMG). This might reveal whether there is a muscle or nerve issue.
• Using a nerve conduction study, you can find out if you have any nerve damage. Nearly all EMG and nerve conduction investigations are performed in tandem.
• MRI: An MRI creates precise images of the brain and spinal cord using radio waves and a strong magnetic field. An MRI can detect tumors in the spinal cord, herniated neck discs, and other diseases that may be the source of your symptoms.
• Urine and blood tests: Analysing samples of your urine and blood in a lab may help rule out further potential reasons for your symptoms.
• Muscle biopsy: an examination of the muscles. You might receive a muscle biopsy if your doctor thinks you might not have ALS but rather a muscle illness.
• Nerve biopsy: biopsy of the nerve. You might receive a nerve biopsy if your doctor thinks you might have a neurological condition other than ALS.

If you feel any of the symptoms, consult your doctors so that they start the diagnosis and treatment accordingly.

Dr. Navin Tiwari
Consulting Neurologist