ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), 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. As the disease progresses there is accelerated loss of ability to walk, move, function and care for oneself.

What Causes ALS?
Although the cause of ALS remains unknown, risk factors include advancing age and family history. ALS generally strikes patients between the ages of 50 and 70, and affects men slightly more often than women. ALS is hereditary in only a small percentage of cases (recent studies suggest that certain genes may increase the risk of the illness). The strong majority of cases arise spontaneously and mysteriously in previously healthy adults. ALS can strike anyone, anytime.

How is ALS Treated?
There is no known cure for ALS. New treatments are under investigation and a number of medications can be helpful for symptoms that may accompany the disease (such as pain medications and muscle relaxants).

What is the Typical Prognosis for Someone with ALS?
ALS eventually leads to death as muscles governing breathing, swallowing and other crucial body functions are affected. Death typically occurs within 3 to 5 years of diagnosis. Most ALS patients tend to die from an inability to breathe or from lung infections that tend to occur when breathing is impaired for long periods of time.