Lou Gehrig's disease is the common name for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS. Lou Gehrig was a famous baseball player who died of ALS. ALS is a chronic, progressive disease marked by gradual breakdown of the nerve cells in the central nervous system. These nerve cells control voluntary muscle movement. The disorder causes muscle weakness and atrophy. This results in loss of muscle control in the limbs and other parts of the body. The disabled muscles linked to decayed nerves eventually waste away. There is no cure for ALS. Those affected usually die within 3 to 5 years. However, some have survived 10 years or more.

The cause of ALS is unknown, although we know it is not contagious. It is a rare disease, affecting about 5000 Americans each year. It is more common in men. There is a form that can occur in more than one person in a family.

The onset of ALS is gradual. The first sign is usually weakness in one limb, often a hand. Weakness later spreads to forearms and legs, and twitching or cramps may occur. There are no unusual changes in feelings or sensations. There is often a pivotal event, such as an unexplained fall, alerting the patient that something is wrong. Paralysis usually occurs as the disease progresses. The disease does not usually affect mental abilities. Swallowing may become difficult. The person may tend to inhale food or saliva. Death usually results from lung infections.

During the early stages, treatment focuses on quality of life. An enjoyable life is quite possible with the emotional support of family and friends. Depending on the patient's condition, braces, walkers or a wheelchair may help. The home may need changes to accommodate lost mobility. There are drugs that help control drooling and spastic movement. Physical therapy may slow the loss of muscle tone. If swallowing problems become severe, one feeds the person by a tube through the nose. In extreme cases, doctors insert a tube to the stomach through the abdominal wall for feeding. In the end stages of ALS, treatment should be used to keep the patient as comfortable as possible.

There have been several books published to help families cope with ALS. For additional information, please contact the ALS Society of America at (800) 782-4747.

Choose a Health Topic Category Aging Alcohol Problems Allergies Arthritis Back & Neck Problems Blood & Circulatory Problems Bones, Joints & Muscles Brain & Nervous System Cancer Cardiovascular Health Child Health & Development Common Illnesses Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surg Dental Health Diabetes Digestive System Drug Abuse Ear, Nose & Throat Eating Disorders Exercise & Fitness Eyes & Vision Family Planning Foot Care General Health Genetic Disorders & Birth Defects Headaches Health Quizzes Hearing HIV Infections / AIDS Hormonal Disorders Infectious Diseases Medications Men's Health Mental & Emotional Health Nervous System Newborn Care Nutrition Parenting & Family Life Personal Safety Pregnancy & Childbirth Preparing for Emergencies Respiratory Problems Sexually Transmitted Diseases Skin Health Smoking Sports Medicine Stress & How to cope Surgery Symptoms Teenage Concerns Test & Examinations Urinary and Genital Systems Weight Control Women's Health   Go