Lou Gehrig's Disease (ALS)
Kyle Weber
What is ALS?
Amyotrophic Laterals Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease is a debilitating neurological disorder that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.
Awareness
Recently, the ALS Association, and millions of supportive people have been doing an "Ice Bucket Challenge" to raise awareness for the disease. Even celebrities have done this and donated to the research for ALS
How Common is ALS?
- Around 5,600 people are diagnosed with ALS each year
- 30,000 people have it at any given time
- 60% of victims are men, 93% are caucasian (no one knows why)
- 20% more common in men
How does ALS affect the body?
- Damages neurons in parts of the brain responsible for cognition and behavior (Frontal Lobe)
- Damages Brain Stem (autonomic functions i.e. chewing, swallowing, breathing)
- Eventually leaves patients unable to move, breathe or swallow
Origin and Diagnosis
- ALS starts by misshapen proteins that block nerve fibers, causing these nerve fibers to die
- Usually starts in the nerves in the feet
- First sign of ALS is typically paralysis in feet and legs
- Very difficult to diagnose; no specific test or procedure
- Electromyogram (EMG) commonly used to detect nerve damage
- There is no specific treatment; various drugs and devices
- Physical therapy is most common
Research
- There is always research going on by different organizations such as the ALS association
- Life expectancy after diagnosis is about 3-5 years
- Many people live beyond their expectancy with the right treatment
E:60 Pat Grange (Full Segment HD)