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Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Symptoms

Trust the professionals at Banner Brain & Spine to help lessen the pain that comes with ALS symptoms. Highly trained professionals are ready to provide individualized care for you or your loved ones.

What Causes ALS?

While mostly caused by genetics and environmental factors, neurologists cannot pinpoint one cause for ALS, making it difficult to diagnose. If you start to feel weak and cannot pinpoint the cause, talk to your doctor to determine a diagnosis as ALS can be mistaken as everyday issues. 

Who Is Diagnosed with ALS?

ALS is more commonly found in men than women and is typically found between the ages of 55 and 75. Caucasians and non-Hispanics are more likely to develop this disease as well.

What Are the Most Common ALS Symptoms?

General symptoms for ALS can differ from person to person. If your family has a history of ALS, be aware of common ALS symptoms including:

  • Tripping
  • Dropping items
  • Slurred speech
  • Muscle cramps
  • Twitches 
  • Trouble breathing

These early signs are also symptoms of ALS and may gradually get worse over time. Learn more about ways to reduce and manage pain in ALS.

Advanced Signs and Symptoms of ALS

ALS is a disease that progresses over time. Advanced signs and ALS symptoms may include:

  • Weakening muscles
  • Trouble chewing
  • Trouble swallowing
  • Trouble breathing

What Are the Two Types of ALS?

There are two types of ALS, including: sporadic ALS and familial ALS.

Sporadic ALS: A majority of ALS diagnoses are considered sporadic due to neurologists not knowing the cause of the disease.

Familial ALS: If two or more people in your family have ALS, this is considered familial ALS. This makes up about 10% of ALS diagnoses. It is important to know your family history when visiting your neurologist. Be sure to share your medical history to determine an accurate diagnosis.

Lean on the experts at Banner Brain & Spine to assist with ALS symptoms. Call or visit Banner today to schedule an appointment.