What is ALS?
ALS is a rapidly progressive neuromuscular disease. It attacks the nerves that the body would normally use to send messages from the brain to the muscle, resulting in weakness and wasting. Eventually, the individual with ALS is left completely paralysed, with loss of speech, swallowing and breathing. The mind remains completely alert and lucid. A lively, unimpaired mind is trapped in an immobilized body. The average life expectancy at diagnosis is 2.5 years.
What causes ALS?
In the majority of cases, the cause is unknown. Research is being conducted in areas relating to genetic predispositions, viral or infectious agents, environmental toxins, and immunological changes. Some of this research is happening right here in Alberta.
Is there a cure?
Simply, no. There is no treatment that prolongs life significantly. Some drugs now available and others being developed will offer new treatment options. Research is investigating ways to reverse the disease. There may eventually be a cure.
What are the effects of ALS?
ALS is a disease of families. As the disease progresses, individuals become completely dependent, and increasingly unable to communicate their needs. Institutionalization is rare; care is almost always provided by family members. Often, family members must quit their jobs to provide this care. This adds enormous financial strain to the already severe emotional stress on families coping with the impending loss of a loved one.