ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease)

What is ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease)?

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movement. As motor neurons degenerate and die, the brain loses its ability to initiate and control muscle movement. Over time, people with ALS lose the ability to walk, speak, eat, and eventually breathe. Despite affecting the body, ALS typically does not affect a person's ability to think, remember, or understand.

Symptoms of ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease)

• Muscle weakness, typically starting in hands, feet, or limbs
• Difficulty walking, tripping, or falling
• Hand weakness or clumsiness
• Slurred speech or trouble swallowing
• Muscle cramps and twitching
• Difficulty holding up the head or maintaining posture
• Inappropriate crying, laughing, or yawning (pseudobulbar affect)
• Cognitive and behavioral changes in some cases
• Progressive paralysis
• Breathing difficulties as respiratory muscles weaken

Steps to Take

1. 1Build a comprehensive care team (neurologist, pulmonologist, nutritionist, physical/occupational/speech therapists)
2. 2Learn about ALS progression and what to expect
3. 3Adapt the home as mobility decreases (ramps, hospital bed, lift equipment)
4. 4Help maintain nutrition as swallowing becomes difficult
5. 5Work with speech therapists on communication strategies and devices
6. 6Understand respiratory care options (BiPAP, ventilator decisions)
7. 7Discuss advance directives and end-of-life wishes early
8. 8Connect with ALS organizations for resources and support
9. 9Arrange respite care regularly—ALS caregiving is intensive
10. 10Address your own emotional needs and grief
11. 11Consider joining an ALS caregiver support group