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Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Brain Nerves

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive nervous system disease that attacks the neurons responsible for controlling voluntary muscles.

Overview

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a nervous system disease that attacks nerve cells called neurons in your brain and spinal cord. These neurons transmit messages from your brain and spinal cord to your voluntary muscles—the muscles you can control, such as those in your arms and legs.

Symptoms

At first, the disease causes mild muscle problems. Some people notice:

  • Trouble walking or running
  • Trouble writing
  • Speech problems

Progression and Prognosis

Eventually, individuals with ALS lose their strength and cannot move. When muscles in the chest fail, the patient cannot breathe. While a breathing machine can provide assistance, most people with ALS die from respiratory failure.

Risk Factors and Causes

The disease usually strikes between the ages of 40 and 60, and it affects more men than women. The cause of ALS is unknown; while it can run in families, it usually strikes at random.

Treatment

There is no cure for ALS. However, medicines can be used to relieve symptoms and, in some cases, prolong survival.

Frequently Asked Questions

Early signs of ALS can be subtle, including mild muscle problems like trouble walking, running, writing, or speaking. If you notice persistent or worsening muscle weakness, stiffness, or difficulty with everyday tasks that you previously found easy, it's important to consult a doctor for evaluation. Early diagnosis can help in managing symptoms and exploring available treatments sooner.
LS is a progressive disease, meaning symptoms worsen over time. While the rate of progression varies for each individual, patients eventually lose muscle strength and the ability to move. Major challenges include loss of mobility, difficulty with daily activities, and ultimately, respiratory failure as the muscles controlling breathing weaken. Breathing assistance may be needed.
While ALS can run in families (familial ALS), the majority of cases (sporadic ALS) strike at random with no known family history. If a close family member has ALS, your risk might be slightly elevated, but it's not a guarantee. Most people with a family history do not develop the disease.
The primary goals of ALS treatment are to relieve symptoms, maintain quality of life, and in some cases, prolong survival. This often involves medications to manage symptoms like muscle cramps or stiffness, physical and occupational therapy to maintain function, and supportive care for breathing and nutrition as the disease progresses. Research continues to find new treatments.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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