Eric Dane, star of Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria, recently announced that he has been diagnosed with ALS, a lethal disease. Fans were deeply saddened by the bad news, while experts have warned about the symptoms of the deadly illness. Renowned physicist Stephen Hawking also battled against Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). This neurological disorder damages the nervous system over time, causing difficulties in basic functions like walking, speaking, eating, and breathing.Those in the UK and the US have a 1 in 300 risk of developing this disease in their lifetime. Although the average lifespan of someone diagnosed with ALS ranges from 2 to 5 years, some patients may live much longer. (Stephen Hawking lived with the disease for about 50 years.)MUSCLE TWITCHING
Among early symptoms are muscle twitching and cramps, described as a ripple under the skin. However, twitching alone is not usually associated with ALS. Fatigue, stress, and caffeine use can also cause such muscle twitches.Constant tiredness is a common symptom of motor neuron disease. Energy deficiency or feeling of depletion can be due to the progressive loss of motor neuron cells.Stumbling, falling, and difficulty climbing stairs can indicate weakness in the leg muscles caused by the disease. Muscles begin to shrink (atrophy), leading to conditions like “foot drop.”Issues such as weakness or stiffness in the hands may herald motor neuron disease. This affects grip strength, making everyday tasks more challenging. However, these symptoms can also arise from nerve entrapment or age-related joint problems.Weakening of facial, mouth, tongue, and throat muscles can cause speech disorders and difficulty swallowing. Changes in the voice pitch and volume may occur. Shortness of breath may also accompany these symptoms.Motor neuron disease can affect not only the muscles but also the mental state. Changes in behavior and thought patterns may be observed. Approximately half of patients experience such changes. According to a report in the Daily Mail, inappropriate crying or laughing fits can occur. Typically, these changes are mild and do not significantly impact daily life.IS THERE A TREATMENT FOR ALS?
Although the cause of this progressive disease is not yet fully understood, there is currently no definitive treatment available.