ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis): Symptoms and Progression
May 5, 2022 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Erika Stolzheim
Dear Doctor,
My name is Jessica Klein and I have noticed for some time that I have difficulty gripping objects. Additionally, my muscles feel weaker and I experience muscle cramps more often. These symptoms worry me greatly, as I have heard of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and fear that it might be this disease.
I have researched and read that ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease in which the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord die, leading to muscle weakness and paralysis. Unfortunately, the course of the disease is incurable and ultimately leads to respiratory failure. This information has left me feeling very uncertain, and I wonder if my symptoms could indicate ALS.
Therefore, my questions to you as a neurologist are: What other symptoms may indicate ALS? Are there other diseases that can cause similar symptoms to ALS? How is ALS diagnosed and what treatment options are available to slow down or alleviate the progression of the disease?
I am very worried about my health and would like to learn more about the symptoms and progression of ALS in order to better understand what is happening to me. I hope that you can help me.
Thank you in advance for your support.
Sincerely,
Jessica Klein
Dear Jessica Klein,
I understand your concerns and fears regarding your symptoms and the possibility of having Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). It is important that you take these concerns seriously and seek immediate evaluation by a specialist to obtain an accurate diagnosis.
ALS is indeed a serious neurodegenerative disease that leads to progressive muscle weakness and paralysis. Other symptoms that may indicate ALS include muscle twitches, muscle cramps, difficulty speaking, swallowing, and breathing, unintentional weight loss, as well as emotional changes such as depression and anxiety. However, it is important to note that these symptoms can also occur in other conditions.
There are various diseases that can cause symptoms similar to ALS, including nerve compression syndromes, Myasthenia gravis, Polymyositis, Spinal Muscular Atrophy, and Multiple Sclerosis. Therefore, a thorough evaluation and diagnosis by a neurologist is essential to determine the cause of your symptoms.
The diagnosis of ALS is usually made based on a detailed medical history, physical examination, neurological tests such as Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction velocity tests, as well as imaging such as MRI or CT scans. Unfortunately, there are no specific laboratory tests or biomarkers that can definitively diagnose ALS. Diagnosis often relies on ruling out other conditions.
Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for ALS. Therefore, treatment mainly focuses on symptom management, improving quality of life, and slowing disease progression. This can be achieved through physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, medication for symptom control, and respiratory support.
It is important that you promptly seek evaluation by a neurologist to obtain an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Please do not hesitate to seek professional help to protect your health.
Wishing you all the best and a speedy recovery,
Erika Stolzheim
