The likelihood of having amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) depends on a variety of factors, including your age, family history, and lifestyle. It is important to note that ALS is a very rare disease, with an estimated 5,600 new cases in the United States each year.
Risk Factors for ALS
The risk of ALS increases with age. The average age of diagnosis is 55-65 years old. The disease is more common in men than women. Other risk factors include:
-A family history of ALS.
-Having a job or lifestyle that exposes you to environmental toxins.
-Exposure to certain viruses or bacteria.
-Having a certain gene mutation.
Diagnosing ALS
If you have symptoms of ALS, your doctor will take a detailed medical history and do a physical exam. Your doctor may order tests to rule out other conditions, such as tests to measure your nerve and muscle function. Your doctor may also order an MRI or CT scan to look for signs of ALS in your brain and spinal cord. If your doctor suspects that you have ALS, they may refer you to a neurologist for further testing.
Living with ALS
If you are diagnosed with ALS, there are treatments available to help slow the progression of the disease and manage symptoms. There is no cure for ALS, but there are many resources available to help you cope with the disease. These include support groups, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech therapy.
In conclusion, the likelihood of having ALS is very low. However, if you have any symptoms that may be related to ALS, it is important to talk to your doctor to get a proper diagnosis.