ALS Treatments

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a disease that impacts the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. It is sometimes called Lou Gehrig's disease. Neurons from the brain through the spinal cord degenerate, leaving the brain unable to control muscles. This is a fatal disease, and because there is no cure, treatment is intended to relieve the symptoms.

Drugs

• Riluzole is a medication that is used to slow the disease, while baclofen and tizanidine relieve the muscle twitching associated with ALS. These medicines come with side effects such as dizziness and weakness.

Physical Therapy

• Physical therapy is used to help the patient manage pain in the muscles and cramping. Stretching helps the muscles not contract as much as they normally would in a patient with. Involuntary contraction of the muscles may lead to joint issues.

Occupational and Speech Therapy

• Speech and occupational therapies are used to help the patient lead a normal and productive life.

Feeding Tube

• Due to their need to eat easy-to-swallow foods that are rich in protein, some patients need to have a feeding tube inserted because of their inability to swallow.

Breathing

• Muscles used for breathing may be compromised in a patient with ALS. A small percentage of patients need to have ventilation support, while some need a noninvasive form of respiratory assistance.