Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurological condition that affects the nerve cells that control voluntary muscles in the body. Over time, ALS causes increasing muscle weakness and loss of motor control that eventually affects the ability to speak, swallow, move and breathe.

At Cooper and Inspira Neuroscience, our neurology specialists provide comprehensive care for people living with ALS. Our team focuses on accurate diagnosis, coordinated care across specialties, and treatments designed to help manage symptoms, slow disease progression and support quality of life.

What Is ALS?

ALS is a motor neuron disease that causes progressive degeneration of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that control voluntary muscle movement. As these nerve cells deteriorate, the muscles they control gradually weaken and lose function.

Although ALS affects muscle function, it typically does not affect thinking, memory, vision, hearing, or the senses, so many people maintain full awareness of their condition as it progresses.

Most cases of ALS occur sporadically while a smaller percentage are inherited through genetic mutations.

Risk Factors for ALS

The exact cause of ALS is not fully understood. A combination of genetic and environmental factors are believed to contribute to the development of the disease. Some of the factors that may increase the risk of ALS include:

• Age: ALS most often develops between ages 40 and 70.
• Genetics: A small percentage of cases are inherited.
• Sex: ALS is slightly more common in men than women, particularly before age 65.
• Environmental exposures: Some research suggests possible links to certain environmental or occupational exposures, although these relationships are still being studied.

Symptoms 

Symptoms of ALS often develop gradually and may vary depending on which motor neurons are affected first. The common early symptoms of the condition may include:

• Muscle weakness in the arms or legs
• Muscle twitching or cramping
• Difficulty walking or frequent tripping
• Slurred speech
• Trouble swallowing
• Fatigue or difficulty performing everyday tasks

As the condition progresses, symptoms may include:

• Increasing difficulty with movement and coordination
• Weakness affecting the ability to speak or swallow
• Difficulty breathing as respiratory muscles weaken

Because these symptoms can overlap with other conditions, an evaluation by an experienced neurology team is important for an accurate diagnosis.

Diagnosing ALS

There is no single test that can confirm ALS. Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive neurological evaluation and a series of tests used to rule out other conditions. Diagnostic testing may include:

• Neurological examination
• Electromyography (EMG) to evaluate nerve and muscle function
• Nerve conduction studies
• MRI imaging of the brain and spinal cord
• Blood tests or genetic testing when appropriate

These tests help physicians determine whether symptoms are caused by ALS or another neurological disorder.

Treatment Options 

While there is currently no cure for ALS, advances in care, medications, and supportive therapies can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. The treatment options for ALS may include:

• Medications that may slow disease progression
• Physical therapy to help maintain mobility and strength
• Occupational therapy to support daily activities
• Speech therapy for communication and swallowing challenges
• Nutritional support and feeding strategies
• Respiratory care to support breathing as needed
• Emotional support and psychotherapy

Care is typically provided by a multidisciplinary team, which may include neurologists, rehabilitation specialists, respiratory therapists, nutritionists, and speech-language pathologists working together to support patients throughout the course of the disease.

When to See a Doctor

The early signs and symptoms of ALS can be subtle and may resemble other conditions. If you experience persistent muscle weakness, muscle twitching, difficulty speaking or swallowing, or problems with coordination, it is important to see your doctor. A neurologist can then perform a comprehensive assessment to determine whether your symptoms may be related to ALS or another condition affecting your nerves or muscles.

Seeking care early for any symptoms you may be experiencing may help ensure you receive appropriate care, symptom management and supportive services as soon as possible.

Why Choose and Inspira Neuroscience for ALS Care

At Cooper and Inspira, patients with ALS benefit from:

• Experienced neurology specialists in neuromuscular disorders
• Coordinated multidisciplinary care tailored to each patient’s needs
• Access to advanced diagnostic testing
• Comprehensive supportive services, including rehabilitation and respiratory care
• Collaboration across specialties to manage complex neurological conditions