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The spinal cord or brain nerve cells can be affected by a nervous disease known as Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, otherwise known as ALS. This condition results in a loss of muscle control. A few years after the disease’s symptoms onset, respiratory failure is more likely to occur. Improve your quality of life with proper ALS treatment and care offered by Pasadena ALS is paramount.
ALS Diagnosis
Since it is difficult to diagnose ALS early due to its neurological disease nature, certain rule out tests has been put in place. These tests include;
- Electromyogram (EMG), where an electrode needle is driven into several muscles, and their electrical activity is evaluated during contraction and rest.
- MRI, a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to produce your detailed spinal cord and brain images.
- Nerve conduction study, the ability of your nerves to send impulses to different muscles is measured.
- Urine and blood test, samples of your urine are analyzed in the laboratory to help eliminate causes of symptoms.
- Lumbar puncture, spinal fluid samples are removed for laboratory testing.
- Muscle biopsy, if your doctor believes you have a muscle disease rather than ALS.
ALS Cause
This condition can be caused by several factors as discussed below;
- Sex, where men are slightly affected more compared to women before the age of 65.
- Age, increased risks come with age for ALS; it is common between the age of 40 to mid-60s.
- Hereditary, a percentage of between five to ten percent of people, inherit it.
- Genetics
Other factors that play a role in causing ALS include;
- Environmental factors
- Lifestyle factors
This disease continues spreading throughout your body, occasionally in adjacent parts rendering the problem immune treatment through care or exercise.
ALS Symptoms and Signs
Some of the signs and symptoms associated with this condition include;
- Walking difficulties during regular daily activities
- Ankle, feet, or leg weakness
- Clumsiness and weakness in the hands
- Falling and tripping
- Trouble swallowing or speech slur
- Arm, tongue, and shoulder twitching
- Cramping muscles
- Yawning, crying, or laughing inappropriately
ALS Treatment
Since there is no known cure for ALS, the below options are offered to provide more comfort to you;
- We are giving whirlpool therapy or heat therapy for muscle cramping relief.
- The use of medication for excessive salivation, muscle cramping, and other symptoms.
- Recommended exercise is done in moderation for muscle function and strength maintenance.
- Physical therapy ensures your mobility and relief from fluid retention, cramps, and muscle stiffness.
- Nutritional counseling for dietary options in the case you have a hard time swallowing while promoting good nutrition.
- Communication training and speech therapy is offered for your verbal communication maintenance.
- The use of certain devices such as corrective braces, reach extenders, splints, grab bars, etc., help continue daily tasks such as toilet use, eating, and dressing.
- To minimize your functional dependence, you can use special equipment such as electric beds and wheelchairs.
Talk to an ALS Specialist Today
ALS treatment and care are paramount, especially since there is no known cure for the disease yet. Staying well informed is a smart choice. Schedule a consultation by contacting Hospice and Palliative Care of California.
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