ALS is a progressive disease, meaning it gets worse over time.
Eventually, all the muscles that a person can control (voluntary muscles) are affected.
People with ALS lose the ability to move their arms, legs, mouth, and body.
Verywell / Melissa Ling
For a long time, it was believed that ALSonlyaffected muscles.
The disease can also cause changes in personality and behavior, such as depression.
ALS does not affect intelligence, or the ability to see or hear.
What Causes ALS?
The exact cause of ALS is not known.
SOD1 breaks down free radicals, harmful particles that attack cells from the inside and cause their death.
Who Gets ALS?
ALS affects people all over the world and of all ethnic backgrounds.
Men are affected more often than women.
In about 5% to 10% of cases, a family member also has the disorder.
Military veterans are at higher risk for ALS, but the reason for this is not clear.
Only one leg or arm may initially be affected.
ALS Treatment
As of yet, there is no cure for ALS.
Treatments are designed to relieve the symptoms and improve the quality of life for people with the disease.
Medications can help reduce fatigue, easemuscle cramps, and lessen pain.
Most people with ALS die from respiratory failure.
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