What does ALS mean in HOSPITALS
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease, is a degenerative neuromuscular condition that affects the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. It causes muscles to slowly weaken, leading to eventual paralysis and death. While there is no cure for ALS, advances in research are providing new hope for those affected by this devastating disease. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms and treatments of ALS so that readers can better understand and prepare for the future.
ALS meaning in Hospitals in Medical
ALS mostly used in an acronym Hospitals in Category Medical that means Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Shorthand: ALS,
Full Form: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
For more information of "Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis", see the section below.
What Is Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis?
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurological disorder affecting the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that control muscles used for speaking, chewing, swallowing, breathing and movement. When these nerves stop functioning correctly, making it difficult or even impossible for people affected by ALS to control movement normally. This leads to muscle weakness and gradual paralysis of parts of the body over time.
Causes of ALS
Although researchers do not yet fully understand why some people develop ALS, they believe that both genetic and environmental factors may play a role in who is at risk of developing the disease. Genes such as SOD1 have been linked to an increased risk of ALS while certain environmental exposures such as occupational exposure to certain chemicals or pollutants may contribute to increased risk as well.
Symptoms Of ALS
Early signs and symptoms of ALS include muscle weakness or stiffness which can affect any part of the body but commonly begins in one area such as on one side of your face or limb; cramps; twitching in your arms or legs; slurred speech; difficulty chewing or swallowing; fatigue from minor activity like talking; headaches; difficulty maintaining balance or coordinative movements; changes in normal behavior such as depression or irritability; shortness of breath due to weakened chest wall muscles. As time passes these symptoms progressively worsen until full-body paralysis sets in along with potential respiratory failure leading eventually to death if respiratory care is not provided.
Treatment For ALS
Unfortunately, there's currently no cure for ALS but treatments can be provided to help manage symptoms and slow down its progression over time. Common treatments include physical therapy to help strengthen remaining muscles while lowering risks associated with immobility such as deep vein thrombosis prescribed medications including riluzole which has been shown to slow down progression of symptoms by up 30% nutritional support via tube feeding if necessary assistive devices such as wheelchairs oxygen therapy speech therapy ventilation equipment might also be needed depending on severity individualized home care plans utilization of practical medical advice designed specifically around patient needs Finally psychological counseling may be beneficial providing emotional support during this difficult period
Essential Questions and Answers on Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in "MEDICAL»HOSP"
What is Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)?
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, commonly referred to as ALS or Lou Gehrig's Disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. These nerve cells control essential bodily functions such as speaking, walking, breathing, swallowing, and muscle movement.
Who can be affected by ALS?
ALS affects individuals of all races and ethnic backgrounds. However, it is slightly more common in men than women, and slightly more common in Caucasians than non-Caucasians. Most people diagnosed with ALS are between the ages of 40 and 70 years old.
What causes ALS?
The cause of most cases of ALS remains unknown; these are referred to as sporadic cases due to their random nature. In the remaining 5%—10% of cases, inherited genes from one or both parents represent a possible cause through a phenomenon known as familial ALS (fALS).
What are the symptoms of ALS?
Common initial symptoms for people with ALS may include muscle twitching and weakness in a limb or slurred speech. Other symptoms can include difficulty swallowing, severe fatigue during everyday activities, unintentional weight loss or muscle cramping and spasms.
How is an ALS diagnosis made?
An accurate diagnosis requires an individual evaluation by a neurologist who specializes in diseases of the nervous system (neuromuscular specialist). This evaluation usually includes tests such as electromyogram (EMG) which measures electrical impulses produced by muscles when they contract; nerve conduction studies which measure how well electrical signals move through nerves; magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to observe changes in nervous tissue anatomy over time; blood tests; pulmonary function tests; and genetic tests if familial ALS is suspected.
Is there treatment for ALS?
Yes — while there is no cure for this disorder at present, medications have been developed to help manage certain symptoms associated with it such as muscle cramps/spasms and depression. Physical therapy has also been shown to improve strength and mobility for those living with this condition.
Is there any research being done on ALS?
Absolutely! Researchers throughout the world are actively collaborating to identify potential treatments including stem cell therapy trials. Additionally, several organizations provide funding opportunities to support ongoing research efforts.
Is there any hope for people diagnosed with ALS?
Despite this diagnosis being life-altering and often terminal in nature, progress continues to be made through research discoveries and existing medications that can extend quality of life for those living with this condition. Individuals living with this disorder must stay positive about their health journey by seeking out support groups or involvement within advocacy organizations.
ALS also stands for: |
|
| All stands for ALS |