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Our brain is connected to our muscles through the many specialized nerve cells, called motor neurons, which enable us to move our bodies as we choose. These neurons work in pairs: an upper neuron that comes from the brain and the lower which comes from the spine. The brain sends a signal along these neurons which effects our muscles to contract. In ALS, the neurons gradually break down and die. This means that the brain can no longer communicate with the muscles of the body. As a result, the muscles become weak and eventually someone living with ALS will be unable to move them.
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (also known as ALS) is a disease that gradually paralyzes people because the brain is no longer able to communicate with the muscles of the body that we are normally able to move at will. Over time, as the muscles of the body break down, someone living with ALS will lose the ability to walk, talk, eat, swallow, and eventually breathe.
There is no one thing that causes ALS. ALS is recognized as having multiple causes that are likely based on changes in people’s genes, and the contribution of environmental factors. So far, a number of genes have been identified as playing a role in the development of ALS. Through research, scientists are learning more about ALS and the multiple factors that may trigger its development.
There are many things being done to further understand the development and progression of the disease, investigate the influence of genetics and other potential risk factors, and develop new and more effective treatments. Scientists are currently investigating ALS through many different approaches such as:
A neurologist will typically diagnose ALS through a process of reviewing symptoms and eliminating other possible diseases.
Any or all of these tests may be used to help diagnose ALS:
Diagnosing ALS does not involve a genetic test. However, someone with a family history of ALS may take the test to identify if they inherited the gene mutation that put them at a higher risk of developing the disease.
No cure has yet been found for ALS. However, there are treatments that can help control symptoms, prevent unnecessary complications, and make living with the disease easier.
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