Book an Appointment
Emergency: 022-61305005
I want to find
My Health Records
Management Team

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

Overview

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also referred to as motor neuron disease, is a progressive neurological condition that impacts the nerve cells responsible for regulating muscle movement. although life expectancy after diagnosis is 2–5 years, the actual prognosis varies on an individual basis.

Symptoms progress gradually and affect different parts of the body: 

  • Progressive weakening of muscles in various body parts
  • Progressive muscle thinning and wasting (atrophy)
  • Difficulty in speaking or swallowing
  • Flickering and twitching of muscles
  • Weakness of breathing muscles, causing respiratory failure and aspiration of food and oral secretions

The exact cause of ALS is still unknown. However, in 5–8% of cases, changes (mutations) in certain genes are responsible. For most patients, it appears to be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors, including:

  • Trauma to the head, neck, or spine
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Family history (in genetic forms of ALS)

Diagnosis is based on clinical evaluation and exclusion of other conditions that mimic ALS:

  • Clinical examination: Neurological assessment of muscle strength, reflexes, and coordination.
  • Electrophysiological tests:
    • Electromyography (EMG): Measures electrical activity in muscles.
    • Nerve conduction study (NCV): Tests how well signals travel through nerves.
  • MRI of spinal cord and brain: Helps rule out other possible causes like cervical myopathy (spinal cord compression).
  • Blood tests: To exclude rare conditions such as IGLON5 disease and paraneoplastic syndromes

Currently, there is no cure for ALS, but treatment focuses on slowing disease progression and improving quality of life:

  • Clinical management of symptoms:
    • Physical therapy and speech therapy.
    • Nutritional support, including feeding tubes in advanced cases.
    • Breathing support with non-invasive ventilation when respiratory muscles weaken.
  • Medications: Riluzole and edaravone can prolong the life expectancy by a few months.

Seek medical attention if you experience:

  • Unexplained muscle weakness or wasting.
  • Persistent twitching or cramps.
  • Slurred speech or difficulty swallowing.
  • Shortness of breath or choking episodes.

Currently, there is no known way to prevent ALS, especially in sporadic cases. However, reducing risk factors such as avoiding repeated head trauma and maintaining overall brain and spinal health may help.

Patients with suspected ALS should consult a Neurologist (specialist in brain, spinal cord, and nerve disorders).

Disclaimer:

The information in this Health Library is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional with any questions about a medical condition or before starting any treatment. Use of this site and its content does not establish a doctor–patient relationship. In case of a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or visit the nearest emergency facility immediately.