Explaining the Progression of ALS

This illustrated video from Stichting ALS Nederland briefly explains the neurodegenerative disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

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It explains the progression of the disease and how it affects patients. ALS causes the brain and spinal cord to stop transmitting signals to the muscles in the body, which leads to them wasting away. Over time, the patient will lose the ability to walk and eventually will be unable to swallow or breathe without help.

There is no cure or treatment for ALS. Palliative care is offered to patients to improve their quality of life and make them as comfortable as possible. Researchers are unsure as to why people develop the disease but are trying to better understand possible causes and hopefully find a cure.

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ALS News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.