Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), or Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder targeting motor neurons that control voluntary muscle movement. As these cells die, individuals experience muscle weakness, atrophy, and eventual paralysis, though cognitive abilities usually remain intact. While 5–10% of cases are genetic, most are sporadic, influenced by age, gender, or environmental toxins. Early symptoms like muscle twitching and slurred speech progress to losing the ability to walk, eat, and breathe. There is no cure for ALS. Treatment focuses on symptom management and life extension through therapies and medications like riluzole, alongside ongoing medical research for a cure.