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Apr 10, 2024 · There's generally no pain in the early stages of ALS. Pain also is not common in the later stages. ALS doesn't usually affect bladder control. It also usually doesn't affect the senses, including the ability to taste, smell, touch and hear.
A gradual onset of progressive muscle weakness – which is generally painless – is the most common initial symptom of ALS. Other early symptoms vary but can include tripping, dropping things, abnormal fatigue of the arms and/or legs, slurred speech, muscle cramps and twitches and uncontrollable periods of laughing or crying.
Feb 22, 2023 · Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) 9 Early Signs of ALS. By Nancy LeBrun. Updated on February 22, 2023. Medically reviewed by Nicholas R. Metrus, MD. Print. Table of Contents. First Signs of ALS. Diagnosis. After Diagnosis. Frequently Asked Questions.
These are the most common symptoms of ALS: Twitching and cramping of muscles, especially those in the hands and feet. Loss of motor control in the hands and arms. Impairment in the use of the arms and legs. Tripping and falling. Dropping things. Persistent fatigue. Uncontrollable periods of laughing or crying.
Jun 15, 2021 · What are the symptoms of ALS? At first, you may notice muscle weakness or stiffness: Limb onset ALS is when the symptoms start in your legs or arms. For example, you may have hand weakness. Buttoning a shirt or writing might be difficult. Or you may notice leg symptoms. You may have trouble walking or frequently trip.
Apr 10, 2024 · Early symptoms include: Muscle twitches in the arm, leg, shoulder, or tongue. Muscle cramps. Tight and stiff muscles (spasticity) Muscle weakness affecting an arm, a leg, or the neck. Slurred and nasal speech. Difficulty chewing or swallowing. As the disease progresses, muscle weakness and atrophy spread to other parts of your body.
Home. Understanding ALS. What is ALS? ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. ”Amyotrophic” comes from the Greek language. "A" means no. "Myo" refers to muscle. "Trophic" means nourishment.
