Mr. Joginder Singh
Patient Testimonial
Discover dedicated ALS care at IBS Hospital. Our team provides comprehensive support, offering comfort to patients and families. Rely on us for personalized solutions and a holistic approach to address ALS challenges with expertise and empathy.
What is Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)?
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), commonly referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a
neuromuscular disorder characterized by progressive muscle weakening. It impacts motor
neuron function, leading to challenges in breathing, speech, walking, swallowing, and more.
The muscles of a person suffering from the condition tend to waste away, eventually resulting
in respiratory failure.
- More than 200,000 people worldwide have ALS
- Global incidence is approximately 6 per 100,000 individuals
- Most commonly diagnosed in individuals aged 40 to 70
What are the various types of ALS?
ALS is broadly classified into two different types:
Sporadic ALS: A type of ALS with no known underlying causes and accounts for the majority of
the cases.
Familial ALS: An uncommon type of ALS that tends to run in families, i.e. it runs through
generations.
Recognising the Symptoms of ALS
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) typically initiates with limb numbness, which worsens
gradually over days or weeks. Subsequently, weakness may manifest in other limbs. As the
condition advances, additional symptoms may arise, such as:
- Twitching/cramping of muscles in the upper and lower limbs
- Loss of motor control and impaired limb function
- Frequent tripping due to loss of balance
- Breathing/swallowing difficulties and paralysis in the advanced stages of ALS
What causes ALS?
While the exact cause remains elusive, researchers have identified certain contributing factors. In certain cases, genetic abnormalities have been associated with ALS, indicating a hereditary component. However, for many individuals, the connection between ALS and environmental factors remains unknown. This intricate interplay of genetic and environmental factors underscores the ongoing research to unravel the underlying mechanisms of ALS.
Diagnosis of ALS
There isn’t a single specific test that can confirm ALS, and doctors typically use a combination
of tests to diagnose ALS. These include:
- Electromyography (EMG) to assess the electrical activity of muscle fibres
- Nerve Conduction Study (NCS) to evaluate the electrical conductivity of the nerves and muscles
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) for generating detailed images of the structures within the brain.
- Biopsy to rule out the possibility of any malignancy
Management / Treatment of ALS at IBS Hospital
Though a comprehensive ALS cure is yet to be achieved, the focus at IBS Hospital is to effectively manage symptoms. Our personalized approach includes medication and therapeutic interventions tailored to each patient’s specific needs. Our dedicated team of specialists provide compassionate care and support to individuals living with ALS. We strive to improve the quality of life and address each patient’s unique challenges.
If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of ALS, please contact us for a consultation and personalized care plan. Together, we will navigate this journey and ensure the best possible outcomes for you and your family.
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