It usually strikes in mid-life, affects more men than women, and typically proves fatal within five years after its discovery. The progressive weakness that marks ALS is due to degeneration within the brain and spinal cord of specific nerve cells that control voluntary movement. Why these cells begin to atrophy is still unknown. The first sign of ALS is often weakness in the hands, and less frequently the feet. The weakness tends to grow worse more rapidly on one side of the body, proceeding up the arm or leg.
Victims are prone to tripping and falling.
They gradually lose motor control in the arms and hands and experience difficulty speaking and swallowing. Many suffer constant fatigue, twitching, tremors, muscle spasms, muscle cramping, and breathing difficulties. Sensation, however, remains intact, as does the brain's ability to think and reason. Treatment generally focuses on relieving discomfort and controlling the symptoms as much as possible. There are a number of support devices to aid patients in performing daily activities.