Amyotrophic (uh-my-o-TROAF-ik) Lateral Sclerosis (scla-ROE-siss), or A-L-S, is a degenerative disease of the central nervous system which leads to a slow, progressive paralysis of the voluntary muscles. It is sometimes called Lou Gehrig's Disease, after a well-known baseball player who was one of its victims. A-L-S usually appears after the age of forty, though it's been known to strike persons in their 20's and 30's. The disease occurs when the neurons or nerve cells that control muscle movements die, causing the muscles to waste away. In some people, A-L-S first affects the muscles of the hand, and there may be cramping and stiffness. It becomes difficult to hold things and perform tasks that require fine hand movements. Other symptoms include progressive weakness of the arms, legs, trunk, throat, and tongue, as well as the muscles that control breathing. This makes it difficult to walk, swallow, breathe, and perform most other physical activities. Mental abilities, however, are not affected. There's no known cause or cure for A-L-S, but physical therapy may help to lessen its effects. Treatment is usually aimed at easing the discomfort. For more information on A-L-S, consult a health care specialist who has experience with this diease.
©2006 Crossroads Mobile. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
