Overview

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a gradual wasting away of nerve cells (motor neurons) in the brain and spinal cord. These nerve cells control the muscles that allow movement. As ALS gets worse, it often becomes harder to walk, speak, eat, swallow, and breathe. But some people live for many years, even decades, after they learn that they have ALS.

Finding out that you have ALS may be overwhelming. You may feel many emotions and may need some help coping. Seek out family, friends, and counsellors for support. Some treatments for ALS may slow the progress of the disease. There are also medicines to help with symptoms. These include medicines to prevent muscle cramps or stiffness, improve appetite, and relieve depression and pain.

ALS is also known as Lou Gehrig's disease or motor neuron disease.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Exercise and stretch your muscles as long as you can. Talk to a physiotherapist about exercises you can do.
• Eat small, frequent meals. Choose soft foods that are easy to swallow. Try to sit up when you eat. Eat slowly.
• Learn about devices that can help you avoid injury and stay independent:
  • A neck (cervical) collar can support your head if the neck muscles get weak.
  • Foot and ankle braces, a cane, a walker, or a wheelchair can help you move around.
  • A ramp over stairs can allow you to get into and out of your house in a wheelchair.
  • Handrails or a shower seat can keep you from falling in the shower. A higher toilet seat can help you use the toilet by yourself.
  • If you have trouble talking, a voice amplifier or an erasable writing pad can help you communicate.
• Consider joining a support group. Sharing your experiences with other people who have the same problem may help you learn more and cope better.
• Be safe with medicines. Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor or nurse advice line if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
• If you have not already done so, prepare an advance care plan. This is instructions to your doctor and family members about what kind of care you want if you become unable to speak or express yourself.