What does ALS mean in NURSING

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurological disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness and paralysis. ALS is also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, after the famous baseball player who was diagnosed with it in 1939.

The main symptoms of ALS are muscle weakness, difficulty walking or speaking, twitching, and an inability to control muscles that cause speech or breathing. These symptoms may vary from person to person but usually progress over time if left untreated.

Unfortunately, there is no known cure for ALS. However, there are treatments available which can help slow down the progression of the disease and improve quality of life for those living with it.

There is currently no known way to prevent or treat ALS through lifestyle changes alone, however making healthy lifestyle choices such as eating a balanced diet and getting regular exercise may be beneficial to maintaining overall health and wellbeing while living with the condition.

Yes! There are several support groups available both online and offline which provide information, advice and emotional support for people living with ALS and their caregivers. Additionally, many organizations exist which provide financial assistance to those dealing with medical bills related to their treatment.

If you have concerns about developing ALS then it is important to speak with your doctor so they can assess your individual risk factors and suggest any necessary tests or further evaluations that may be needed.

The exact prevalence of ALS is unknown but estimates suggest it affects approximately 2 per 100 000 people worldwide each year. It usually affects adults between the ages of 40-60 although younger people can also develop the condition.

Not necessarily - everyone's needs will be different based on their individual condition so it's best to discuss this with your doctor who can advise you on how best to address your nutritional needs while managing your symptoms effectively.

Yes! Although individuals living with ALS may find that certain activities become more difficult as the condition progresses, many are still able to remain physically active without putting undue strain on their bodies by participating in low impact exercise such as swimming or yoga as well as leisure activities like gardening or taking walks outdoors. With proper planning these activities can become an enjoyable part of daily life for someone living with this condition.