Last updated 27/12/2023 by The pain clinics - Interdisciplinary Health

6 Early Signs of ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis)

Here are 6 early signs of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) that allow you to recognize the condition at an early stage and get the right treatment. An early diagnosis is very important in order to slow the development of ALS and get the maximum out of treatment. None of these signs, on your own, means you have ALS, but if you experience any of the symptoms, we recommend that you consult your GP for a consultation. We note that this is a very rare diagnosis.

Do you have input? Feel free to use the comment box or contact us Facebook or YouTube.

ALS is a progressive nerve disease that gradually breaks down the nerves that control the muscles - this leads to gradual muscle loss and loss of muscle function. It starts in the feet and then goes upwards in the body with worsening. The disease is incurable and has a fatal outcome when it eventually breaks down the muscles used to breathe.

Difficulty walking

An early sign of ALS may be that you feel that you have changed your gait, that you often stumble, feel clumsy, and that even regular chores can be difficult.

Weakness in the feet, ankles and legs

Reduced strength can occur in the muscles of the feet, ankles and legs. ALS usually starts at the bottom of the feet and then spreads upward in the body as the condition gradually deteriorates.

3. Language difficulties and swallowing problems

You may find that it is difficult to pronounce words or that you slur with the pronunciation. Swallowing can also become more difficult as the condition worsens.

4. Weakness of hands and lack of coordination

As mentioned, ALS can gradually spread up the body from the feet. You can thus experience muscle weakness in the hands, reduced grip strength and that you lose things - such as the coffee cup or the glass of water.

5. Muscle cramps and twitching in arms, shoulders and tongue

Involuntary twitches in the muscles are also called fasciculations. As the nerve disease ALS worsens, you may find that you get jerks and muscle cramps in affected areas.

6. Difficulty in keeping your head up and changing posture

As the musculature becomes weakened it can become difficult to maintain a good posture. It can also be difficult to keep your head up, and you may often get a more forward-thinking attitude.

What can you do if you have ALS?

- Collaborate with your GP and study a plan for how you can stay as healthy as possible, this may involve:

Neurological referral for examination of nerve function with regard to possible investigation of neuropathy

Treatment by a nutritionist

Lifestyle Changes

Training programs

Feel free to continue to support ALS

Feel free to share this article in social media or on your website. In this way, we can put pressure on the pharmaceutical industry in relation to lowering the prices of medicines for musculoskeletal disorders. Life in front of profits! Together we are strong!

Follow Vondt.net on YOUTUBE

(Follow and comment if you want us to make a video with specific exercises or elaborations for exactly YOUR issues)

Follow Vondt.net on FACEBOOK

(We try to respond to all messages and questions within 24-48 hours. We can also help you interpret MRI responses and the like.)