Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis ALS
ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. It leads to loss of muscle control and worsens over time.
Impact of Gene Variants
- Approximately 10% of ALS cases are linked to genetic factors.
- Over 40 ALS genes have been identified, contributing to our understanding of the disease.
Ways to Recognize Problems
- Early symptoms include muscle twitches, cramps, and weakness.
- As ALS progresses, it affects mobility, breathing, and coordination.
Ways to Improve
- Physical and occupational therapy can help maintain muscle function.
- Low-impact exercise, heat therapy, speech therapy, respiratory therapy, and diet can also be beneficial.
Did you know
Approximately 5,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with ALS each year.