What is ALS disease

ALS disease is short for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, which is a progressive motor neuron that attacks nerve cells called neurons in your brain and spinal cord that are responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movement, such as those in our arms, legs, and face 1). ALS is also called Lou Gehrig’s disease. As these motor neurons degenerate or die, they stop sending signals to muscles. Unable to function, the muscles gradually weaken and waste away.

Normally, messages from motor neurons in the brain (called upper motor neurons) are transmitted to motor neurons in the spinal cord and to motor nuclei of brain (called lower motor neurons) and from the spinal cord and motor nuclei of brain to a particular muscle or muscles (See Nervous System below for better explanation).


Unfortunately, people with ALS usually have a shortened lifespan and may die within a few years of diagnosis. ALS is age related; most people find out they have it when they are between 55 and 75 years of age, and live from 2 to 5 years after symptoms develop. How long a person lives with ALS seems to be related to age; people who are younger when the illness starts live slightly longer. ALS affects people of all races and ethnicities, however ALS is most common in whites, males, and people over the age of 60. Over 17,000 people are estimated to be living with ALS in the United States 2). ALS most commonly strikes between the ages of 40 and 60, but younger and older people also can develop the disorder 3). Men are more likely than women to be affected.

At first only a single limb may be affected, such as some weakness in a hand or a leg, or a person may have problems speaking or swallowing. Other symptoms may include stiff muscles, cramps, or stumbling. It may become hard to turn a key, lift a coffee pot, or button a shirt.

Eventually, all muscles under voluntary control are affected, and people lose the ability to move different parts of their body.

When breathing-related muscles fail, ventilation support can help people breathe. Most people with ALS die from respiratory failure, usually within 3 to 5 years after symptoms first appeared. However, about 10% of people with ALS survive for 10 or more years 4).

In most ALS cases, the underlying causes are unknown and there is no cure for ALS. Currently, there is no cure for ALS and no effective treatment to halt, or reverse, the progression of the disease, but medicines can relieve symptoms and sometimes, prolong survival.

There is no definite method to prevent ALS.

Multidisciplinary ALS clinics provide specialty care to people living with the disease. Attending multidisciplinary ALS clinics may improve the quality and length of life of people living with ALS. You can learn more about ALS providers here: https://wwwn.cdc.gov/ALS/ALSRegistryResources.aspx 5)

ALS Resource Links

ALS life expectancy


The nervous system

The nervous system has two major anatomical subdivisions:

  • The central nervous system (CNS) consists of the brain and spinal cord, which are enclosed and protected by the cranium and vertebral column. The central nervous system is discussed further in the other posts: Human brain and Spinal cord.
  • The peripheral nervous system (PNS) consists of all the rest; it is composed of nerves and ganglia. A nerve is a bundle of nerve fibers (axons) wrapped in fibrous connective tissue. Nerves emerge from the central nervous system (CNS) through foramina of the skull and vertebral column and carry signals to and from other organs of the body. A ganglion (plural, ganglia) is a knotlike swelling in a nerve where the cell bodies of peripheral neurons are concentrated.

Figure 1. Nervous system and its parts

nervous system

Nervous system function

The communicative role of the nervous system is carried out by nerve cells, or neurons. These cells have three fundamental physiological properties that enable them to communicate with other cells:

  1. Excitability. All cells are excitable—that is, they respond to environmental changes (stimuli). Neurons exhibit this property to the highest degree.
  2. Conductivity. Neurons respond to stimuli by producing electrical signals that are quickly conducted to other cells at distant locations.
  3. Secretion. When the signal reaches the end of a nerve fiber, the neuron secretes a neurotransmitter that crosses the gap and stimulates the next cell.

Functional Classes of Neurons

There are three general classes of neurons corresponding to the three major aspects of nervous system function listed above (e.g. excitability, conductivity and secretion):

  1. Sensory (afferent) neurons are specialized to detect stimuli such as light, heat, pressure, and chemicals, and transmit information about them to the central nervous system (CNS). Such neurons begin in almost every organ of the body and end in the central nervous system (CNS); the word afferent refers to signal conduction toward the central nervous system (CNS). Some receptors, such as those for pain and smell, are themselves neurons. In other cases, such as taste and hearing, the receptor is a separate cell that communicates directly with a sensory neuron.
  2. Interneurons lie entirely within the central nervous system (CNS). They receive signals from many other neurons and carry out the integrative function of the nervous system—that is, they process, store, and retrieve information and “make decisions” that determine how the body responds to stimuli. About 90% of our neurons are interneurons. The word interneuron refers to the fact that they lie between, and interconnect, the incoming sensory pathways and the outgoing motor pathways of the central nervous system (CNS).
  3. Motor (efferent) neurons send signals predominantly to muscle and gland cells, the effectors. They are called motor neurons because most of them lead to muscle cells, and efferent neurons to signify signal conduction away from the central nervous system (CNS).

Figure 2. Functional classes of neurons

functional classes of neurons

What causes ALS disease

No one knows what causes most cases of ALS, but ALS is inherited in 5 to 10 percent of cases, while the rest have no known cause.

Sporadic ALS


Familial (Genetic) ALS


Most familial cases are inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. This means that only one altered (mutated) copy of the disease-causing gene in each cell is sufficient to cause the condition. In most of these cases, an affected individual has one parent with the condition. When an individual with an autosomal dominant form of ALS has children, each child has a 50% (1 in 2) risk to inherited the mutated copy of the gene and be affected.

Less frequently, ALS is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner. In autosomal recessive inheritance, both copies of the disease-causing gene (typically one copy inherited from each parent) must have a mutation for the individual to be affected. The parents of an individual with an autosomal recessive condition, who presumably each carry one mutated copy of the gene, are referred to as carriers. Carriers typically do not have any signs or symptoms of the condition. When two carriers for the same condition are having children, each child has a 25% (1 in 4) risk to have the condition, a 50% (1 in 2) risk to be a carrier like each parent, and a 25% risk to not have the condition and not be a carrier. Autosomal recessive forms of ALS may be mistaken for non-inherited (sporadic) forms due to having a negative family history of the condition.

In rare cases, ALS is inherited in an X-linked dominant manner. This occurs when the disease-causing gene is located on the X chromosome (a sex chromosome). Although females have 2 X chromosomes, having a mutation in one X chromosome is still sufficient to cause the condition. Males who have a mutation (and only one X chromosome) will have the condition. Usually, males with an X-linked dominant form of ALS experience more severe symptoms than females with the same form.

Some individuals who do inherit a mutation known to cause ALS never develop signs and symptoms of ALS, although the reason for this is unclear. This phenomenon is referred to as reduced penetrance 7).

Scientists have been studying many factors that could be linked with ALS such as heredity and environmental exposures. Other scientists have looked at diet or injury. Although no cause has been found for most cases of ALS, a number of inherited factors have been found to cause familial ALS. In the future, scientists may find that many factors together cause ALS.

Researchers are studying several possible causes of ALS, including:

  • Gene mutation. Various genetic mutations can lead to inherited ALS, which causes nearly the same symptoms as the noninherited form.
  • Disorganized immune response. Sometimes a person’s immune system begins attacking some of his or her body’s own normal cells, which may lead to the death of nerve cells.
  • Protein mishandling. Mishandled proteins within the nerve cells may lead to a gradual accumulation of abnormal forms of these proteins in the cells, destroying the nerve cells.

Clinical genetic testing is currently available for several genes in which mutations are known to cause ALS. Genetic testing on a research basis is also available for select susceptibility genes associated with ALS 8).

You can find laboratories offering clinical and research genetic testing for ALS through the Genetic Testing Registry (GTR). The intended audience for the GTR is health care providers and researchers. Patients and consumers with specific questions about a genetic test should contact a health care provider or a genetics professional.

Risk factors for ALS

Established risk factors for ALS include:

  • Genetics. Some studies examining the entire human genome (genomewide association studies) found many similarities in the genetic variations of people with familial ALS and some people with noninherited ALS. These genetic variations might make people more susceptible to ALS.

Environmental factors may trigger ALS. Some that may affect ALS risk include:

  • Military service. Recent studies indicate suggest that military veterans are about 1.5 to 2 times more likely to develop ALS. It’s unclear exactly what about military service may trigger the development of ALS. It may include exposure to certain metals or chemicals, traumatic injuries, viral infections, intense exertion, pesticides, and other environmental toxins. ALS is recognized as a service-connected disease by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

ALS disease early symptoms



Early signs and symptoms of ALS include 9):

  • Difficulty walking or doing your normal daily activities
  • Tripping and falling
  • Weakness affecting your leg, feet, ankles, neck or diaphragm
  • Hand weakness or clumsiness
  • Slurred speech and nasal speech
  • Trouble swallowing and chewing
  • Muscle cramps
  • Muscle twitching (fasciculations) in your arms, shoulders and tongue
  • Difficulty holding your head up or keeping good posture
  • Tight and stiff muscles (spasticity)

ALS often starts in the hands, feet or limbs, and then spreads to other parts of your body. As the disease advances and nerve cells are destroyed, your muscles progressively weaken. This eventually affects chewing, swallowing, speaking and breathing.



ALS doesn’t usually affect your bowel or bladder control, your senses or your thinking ability. It’s possible to remain actively involved with your family and friends.





Complications of ALS


Breathing problems

Over time, ALS paralyzes the muscles you use to breathe. You may need a device to help you breathe at night, similar to what someone with sleep apnea might wear. For example, you may be given continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or bi-level positive airway pressure (BiPAP) to assist with your breathing at night.



Speaking problems

Most people with ALS will develop trouble speaking over time. This usually starts as occasional, mild slurring of words, but progresses to become more severe. Speech eventually becomes more difficult for others to understand, and people with ALS often rely on other communication technologies to communicate.

Eating problems




ALS disease diagnosis

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is difficult to diagnose early because it may mimic several other neurological diseases.




Tests to rule out other conditions may include:

  • Electromyogram (EMG). During an EMG, your doctor inserts a needle electrode through your skin into various muscles. The test evaluates the electrical activity of your muscles when they contract and when they’re at rest. Abnormalities in muscles seen in an electromyogram can help doctors diagnose ALS, or determine if you have a different muscle or nerve condition that may be causing your symptoms. It can also help guide your exercise therapy.
  • Nerve conduction study. This study measures your nerves’ ability to send impulses to muscles in different areas of your body. This test can determine if you have nerve damage or certain muscle diseases.
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Using radio waves and a powerful magnetic field, an MRI produces detailed images of your brain and spinal cord. An MRI can spot spinal cord tumors, herniated disks in your neck or other conditions that may be causing your symptoms.
  • Spinal tap (lumbar puncture). Sometimes a specialist may remove a sample of your spinal fluid for analysis. A specialist inserts a small needle between two vertebrae in your lower back and removes a small amount of cerebrospinal fluid for testing in the laboratory.
  • Muscle biopsy. If your doctor believes you may have a muscle disease rather than ALS, you may undergo a muscle biopsy. While you’re under local anesthesia, a small portion of your muscle is removed and sent to a lab for analysis.

Treatment for ALS

No cure has yet been found for ALS. Treatments can’t reverse the damage of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, but they can slow the progression of symptoms, prevent complications and make you more comfortable and independent.

You may need an integrated team of doctors trained in many areas and other health care professionals to provide your care. This may prolong your survival and improve your quality of life.

Your team will help you select the right treatments for you. You always have the right to choose or refuse any of the treatments suggested.

Medications for ALS

Two medications are currently approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of ALS.

  • Riluzole (Rilutek) — This drug appears to slow the disease’s progression in some people, perhaps by reducing levels of a chemical messenger in the brain (glutamate) that’s often present in higher levels in people with ALS. Riluzole is taken as a pill and may cause side effects such as dizziness, gastrointestinal conditions and liver function changes.
  • Edaravone (Radicava) — The FDA approved edaravone in 2017 based on six-month clinical trial that showed it reduced the decline in daily functioning associated with ALS. The drug is given via intravenous infusion (typically 10-14 days in a row, once a month), and side effects may include bruising, gait disturbance, hives, swelling and shortness of breath.Edaravone contains sodium bisulfite, which may cause serious allergic reactions in people with sulfite sensitivity.


  • Muscle cramps and spasms
  • Spasticity
  • Constipation
  • Fatigue
  • Excessive salivation
  • Excessive phlegm
  • Pain
  • Depression
  • Sleep problems
  • Uncontrolled outbursts of laughing or crying

Therapies for ALS

  • Breathing care. You’ll eventually have more difficulty breathing as your muscles become weaker. Doctors may test your breathing regularly and provide you with devices to assist your breathing at night.You may choose mechanical ventilation to help you breathe. Doctors insert a tube in a surgically created hole at the front of your neck leading to your windpipe (tracheostomy), and the tube is connected to a respirator.
  • Physical therapy. A physical therapist can address pain, walking, mobility, bracing and equipment needs that help you stay independent. Practicing low-impact exercises may help maintain your cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength and range of motion for as long as possible.A physical therapist can also help you adjust to a brace, walker or wheelchair and may suggest devices such as ramps that make it easier for you to get around.Regular exercise can also help improve your sense of well-being. Appropriate stretching can help prevent pain and help your muscles function at their best.
  • Occupational therapy. An occupational therapist can help you find ways to remain independent despite hand and arm weakness. Adaptive equipment can help you perform daily activities such as dressing, grooming, eating and bathing.An occupational therapist can also help you modify your home to allow accessibility if you have trouble walking safely.Occupational therapists also have a good understanding of how assistive technology and computers can be used, even if your hands are weak.
  • Speech therapy. Because ALS affects the muscles you use to speak, communication is an issue in advanced ALS. A speech therapist can teach you adaptive techniques to make your speech more clearly understood. Speech therapists can also help you explore other methods of communication, such as an alphabet board or simple pen and paper.Ask your therapist about the possibility of borrowing or renting devices such as tablet computers with text-to-speech applications or computer-based equipment with synthesized speech that may help you communicate.
  • Nutritional support. Your team will work with you and your family members to ensure you’re eating foods that are easier to swallow and meet your nutritional needs. You may eventually need a feeding tube.

Potential future treatments

Clinical studies on promising medications and treatments are occurring in ALS all the time.

Whether you are eligible for a clinical study depends on many factors related to your ALS and also whether there are ongoing studies enrolling patients. While many of these studies are promising, they are still only studies, and it isn’t yet clear if these treatments will help people with ALS. Talk to your doctor about what might be available for you.

Coping and support for ALS


  • Take time to grieve. The news that you have a fatal condition that will reduce your mobility and independence can be difficult. You and your family will likely experience a period of mourning and grief after diagnosis.
  • Join a support group. You may find comfort in a support group with others who have ALS. Your family members and friends helping with your care also may benefit from a support group of other ALS caregivers. Find support groups in your area by talking to your doctor or by contacting the ALS Association.
  • Make decisions now about your future medical care. Planning for the future allows you to be in control of decisions about your life and your care.With the help of your doctor, hospice nurse or social worker, you can decide whether you want certain life-extending procedures.You can also decide where you want to spend your final days. You may consider hospice care options. Planning for the future can help you and your loved ones put to rest some common anxieties.

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