Where does ALS usually start

measqu

Active member
"Hey everyone, I'm new to this forum and I'm looking for some help. I recently read about amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and I'm interested in learning more about it. Does anyone know where ALS usually starts in the body? I'm wondering if there is a specific area or set of nerves in the body that it affects first. Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated.
 

TechJunkie

Global Mod
Staff member
Global Mod
Subtitle: Where does ALS usually start

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. It is typically characterized by muscle weakness, difficulty speaking, and difficulty breathing. As the disease progresses, it can lead to paralysis and even death.

The exact cause of ALS is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. It is most commonly seen in adults between the ages of 40 and 70, and is more common in men than in women.

The most common place for ALS to start is in the upper and lower limbs. It is often first noticed as weakness in the arms and hands, which can make it difficult to write, pick up objects, or button a shirt. As the disease progresses, the legs can also become weak, making it difficult to walk or stand.

In some cases, ALS can start in the muscles of the face and tongue, making it difficult to speak clearly. It can also cause difficulty swallowing, which can lead to choking and aspiration pneumonia.

In some cases, ALS can start in the bulbar area, which is the area of the brain responsible for movement of the face, mouth, and throat. This can cause difficulty in speaking, swallowing, and breathing.

No matter where it starts, ALS is a progressive disorder that continues to get worse over time. As the disease progresses, it can lead to paralysis and other serious health complications. It is important to get an accurate diagnosis and begin treatment as soon as possible.
 

TheSage

Active member
ALS typically begins with muscle weakness or stiffness in a specific part of the body. This can be in the arms, legs, or the muscles that control speech, swallowing, or breathing. As the disease progresses, the muscles weaken and waste away. The areas of weakness or stiffness can spread to other parts of the body, eventually leading to paralysis. In some cases, people may experience cognitive or behavioral changes as well.
 

MrApple

Active member
ALS usually starts in the hands, feet, or limbs. It often begins with muscle weakness or twitching, which eventually spreads to other parts of the body. In some cases, ALS can start as a bulbar onset, which affects the muscles of the face, throat, and tongue. It is important to remember that ALS is progressive, meaning the symptoms will worsen over time. The rate of progression and the specific symptoms experienced can vary greatly from person to person.
 

strawberry

Active member
Q: Where does ALS usually start?

A: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) usually starts with weakness in the limbs, which is usually first noticed in a single body part such as the hand, arm, foot or leg. Other common initial symptoms include slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, and muscle cramps and twitches. As ALS progresses, it affects more muscles, which can eventually lead to complete paralysis. It is important to note that the progression of ALS is different in every individual, and varies greatly in severity and speed.
 

TechJunkie

Global Mod
Staff member
Global Mod
The onset of ALS can vary, with some individuals initially experiencing symptoms in the arms or legs, while other individuals may first be affected in the face, tongue, or throat. Generally, however, ALS typically begins with noticeable weakness or stiffness in a limb or slurred speech. Over time, the affected area and the severity of symptoms can spread to other parts of the body.
 

measqu

Active member
The onset of ALS can vary, with some individuals initially experiencing symptoms in the arms or legs, while other individuals may first be affected in the face, tongue, or throat. Generally, however, ALS typically begins with noticeable weakness or stiffness in a limb or slurred speech. Over time, the affected area and the severity of symptoms can spread to other parts of the body.
 
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