Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Symptoms and Diagnosis

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. ALS is also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.

Looking for information on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)? This guide covers the symptoms and diagnosis of ALS, providing valuable insights for patients and caregivers.

Table of Contents

What is amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)?

Neurological disorders

Symptoms

Who is more likely to get amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)?

Causes

Risk Factors

How is amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) diagnosed?

Diagnosis of Neurological Disorders

Know the Diagnosis of Neurological Disorders

How is amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) treated?

Neurologists in Mumbai

Frequently Asked Questions

Which are the neurological disorders?

1. Alzheimer’s Disease 2. Parkinson’s Disease 3. Epilepsy 4. Multiple Sclerosis 5. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) 6. Migraines 7. Huntington’s Disease 8. Stroke 9. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) 10. Neuropathy 11. Dystonia 12. Tourette Syndrome 13. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) 14. Neurodevelopmental Disorder 15. Bipolar Disorder 16. Schizophrenia 17. Neurodegenerative Disease 18. Cerebral Palsy

How serious are neurological disorders?

The seriousness or complexity of the disorder will depend on the specific type of disorder and what it affects. It is important to seek medical attention to assess the severity and manage the condition accurately.

What does a neurologist do?

A neurologist is a medical doctor specialising in diagnosing and treating diseases and disorders of the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. They can diagnose and provide treatment for a wide range of neurological conditions, including stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, migraines, and muscle and nerve disorders.

How are neurological disorders diagnosed?

A neurologist typically diagnoses neurological disorders after a review of the patient’s medical and family history, a physical examination, a neurological exam, and tests such as imaging and blood tests. Imaging techniques like MRI, CT, and PET scans can diagnose neurological disorders like stroke, brain tumours, and degenerative brain diseases.
Blood tests can also detect certain neurological disorders, such as infections and metabolic disorders. Additionally, electroencephalograms (EEG) and electromyograms (EMG) can detect electrical activity in the brain, nerves, and muscles, which can help diagnose certain neurological disorders.

How are neurological disorders treated?

Neurological disorders can be treated with various methods depending on the type and severity of the disorder. These include medications, physical therapy, surgery, and alternative treatments such as acupuncture or relaxation techniques. Depending on the disorder, treatments may be designed to address issues such as controlling movement, improving cognition, and relieving pain.
Treatment options may include medications such as antidepressants, anticonvulsants, antipsychotics; psychotherapy; and lifestyle modifications. Other treatments, such as deep brain or transcranial magnetic stimulation, might be recommended for neurological disorders like epilepsy or Parkinson’s.

How much does it cost in India for neurological treatments?

The cost of neurological treatments in India can vary depending on the particular treatment and the facility providing it. Generally speaking, neurological treatments in India can range from a few thousand rupees up to several lakhs of rupees. The cost of medications used for treating neurological conditions may also contribute to the overall cost.