What is ALS?

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that attacks nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord resulting in muscle weakness and atrophy.  The voluntary muscles are affected leaving the patient to have difficulty talking, walking, eating and eventually breathing.  The mental capacity, however, of the majority of people remains unaffected. 

Although the cause of ALS is not completely understood, the recent years have brought a wealth of new scientific understanding regarding the physiology of this disease.

While there is not a cure or treatment today that halts or reverses ALS, there is one FDA approved drug, Rilutek®, which modestly slows the progression of ALS as well as several other drugs in clinical trials that hold promise.

Also, there are significant devises and therapies that can manage the symptoms of ALS that help people maintain as much independence as possible and prolong survival.  It is important to remember that ALS is a quite variable disease; no two people will have the same journey or experiences.  No matter what your individual course or situation may be; The ALS Association of Georgia is here to help.

To learn more about the ALS Association of Georgia’s services please click here.