ALS is a disease that weakens the muscles by damaging the nerves that control voluntary movements, leading to difficulty moving and eventually affecting breathing and speaking.

• Genetics: About 5-10% of ALS cases are inherited due to gene mutations passed down from parents.
• Environmental factors: Exposure to certain toxins, heavy metals, or chemicals may increase the risk of developing ALS.
• Age-related changes: Most cases of ALS occur in people between the ages of 40 and 70, with the risk increasing as people age.
• Oxidative stress and inflammation: These processes may contribute to neuron damage and degeneration.

• Individuals with a family history of ALS: Inherited ALS accounts for a small percentage of cases, but it can occur in families with a history of the disease.
• Men between the ages of 40-70: ALS is more common in middle-aged and older men, although it can affect women as well.
• Military veterans: Some studies suggest that veterans, particularly those who served in combat, may have a higher risk of developing ALS, possibly due to environmental exposures.

• Muscle weakness: Often begins in the arms or legs, making simple tasks like buttoning a shirt or lifting objects difficult.
• Twitching (fasciculations): Small, involuntary muscle twitches may occur in the arms, legs, shoulders, or tongue.
• Slurred speech: As the muscles involved in speech weaken, talking may become slow or slurred.
• Difficulty swallowing: Swallowing may become more challenging as the muscles weaken.
• Clumsiness: Frequent tripping, dropping objects, or difficulty with balance can occur as muscles weaken.

• Breathing difficulties: Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing as the muscles involved in respiration weaken.
• Choking or trouble swallowing: Difficulty swallowing food or liquids can lead to choking and requires medical attention to prevent further complications.
• Sudden, severe muscle weakness: Rapidly progressing weakness in the limbs or other parts of the body may require urgent care.

• Physical and neurological exams: A healthcare provider will evaluate muscle strength, reflexes, coordination, and sensation to look for signs of ALS.
• Electromyography (EMG): This test measures the electrical activity of muscles and can detect abnormalities in the function of motor neurons.
• Nerve conduction studies: These tests measure how well electrical signals travel through the nerves to the muscles, helping to identify nerve damage.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): An MRI of the brain and spinal cord can help rule out other conditions like tumors or spinal cord problems.
• Blood and urine tests: These are used to exclude other causes of muscle weakness and neurological symptoms.

• Medications: Riluzole is a drug that may slow the progression of ALS by reducing damage to motor neurons, while Edaravone, an intravenous medication, may help slow functional decline in some people with ALS.
• Physical therapy: Exercises and stretching can help maintain muscle strength, flexibility, and mobility for as long as possible.
• Speech therapy: As speech becomes more difficult, therapists can help with communication strategies, including the use of assistive devices.
• Breathing support: Non-invasive ventilation, such as BiPAP machines, can assist with breathing as the disease progresses.
• Nutritional support: As swallowing becomes more difficult, a feeding tube may be necessary to ensure adequate nutrition.

• Unexplained muscle weakness in your arms, legs, or hands: Persistent weakness that isn’t related to an injury may require further evaluation.
• Difficulty speaking or swallowing: Worsening issues with speech or swallowing over time could be a sign of ALS.
• Muscle twitching or cramping: Ongoing muscle twitching or cramping that doesn’t resolve may indicate motor neuron damage.
• Breathing difficulties or shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing or unexplained shortness of breath requires immediate medical attention.

• Avoid exposure to toxins: Limiting contact with harmful chemicals, heavy metals, and other environmental toxins may lower the risk of neurological damage.
• Exercise regularly: Engaging in regular, moderate exercise supports overall muscle and nerve health, which may help maintain strength and function.
• Maintain a healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals helps support the body's immune and neurological systems.
• Stay mentally active: Engaging in mentally stimulating activities can promote brain health and overall well-being.

• Undergoing regular health check-ups: Regular visits to a healthcare provider can help catch early signs of neurological conditions and support overall health.
• Staying informed: Learning about family medical history can help you understand potential genetic risks for conditions like ALS.