What is ALS?
ALS is a rare nervous system disease that causes the gradual degeneration of nerve cells responsible for motor functions. It results in muscle weakness and paralysis and makes independent living impossible.
ALS is a disease that affects people between 50-70 years old (men more than women). It has no cure, and after a few years, patients mostly die due to respiratory problems.
ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), is a most common type of Motor Neurone Disease (MND)
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) or Lou Gehrig’s disease is a most common type of Motor Neurone Disease (MND), is a group of rare neurodegenerative disorders that affect the motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. These diseases cause gradual and rapid muscle weakness, eventually becoming severe over time.
Motor neurons are like electrical wiring in the body, sending signals from the brain and spine to the muscles for movements. MND causes these nerves to degenerate or die prematurely, leading to rapid muscle weakness and turning off the response mechanism.
Symptoms may include:
- muscle weakness and paralysis,
- impaired speaking,
- swallowing, and
- breathing.
Cause- what might be causing this condition?
Scientists are currently investigating multiple factors that could potentially cause amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. While about 10% of cases are caused by an inherited gene mutation, the cause of the remaining 90% is still unknown. However, there is a possibility that protein deposits or imbalanced calcium levels in the brain may be related to the disease.
ALS symptoms and cause
Depending on the location of the nerve disorder (brain or spinal cord), the symptoms may be expressed in different ways. Muscle spasticity (tense muscles) or flaccid muscle paralysis can result.
In some patients, the disease begins in one arm or hand and can initially affect the swallowing mechanism. Over time, as the nerves supplying the muscles progressively die, patients may experience increasing difficulty with speaking, swallowing, walking, and coordination. This can ultimately result in generalized muscle wasting.
In amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, breathing becomes progressively difficult or impossible since both respiratory musculature and the lungs are affected.
Frequent aspiration pneumonia resulting from dysphagia may occur with rare incidences of comorbid ALS, dementia, and Parkinson’s.
How do you diagnose?
A neurologist can identify muscle tremors, paralysis, or cramping that could be indicative of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) by observing the affected person. To confirm the diagnosis of ALS and rule out other nerve disorders, various muscle and nerve conductivity tests, such as electromyography/neurography, are required. Additionally, a cerebrospinal fluid analysis or a magnetic resonance tomography of the head can provide further insight into the nature of the disease.
How is ALS treated?
Effective treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis requires proper interdisciplinary medical cooperation. Usually, patients need to be treated by neurologists, internists (specialists in internal medicine), pulmonologists (specialists in lung medicine), and psychologists for appropriate therapy. Management of symptoms is of tremendous importance as there is no causal treatment for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
If you or someone you know is living with ALS, there are helpful treatments available to relieve symptoms and prevent complications. Individualized physiotherapy and speech therapy can be particularly beneficial in teaching proper speech and swallowing techniques. These therapies can help prevent accidental swallowing of food and alleviate muscle spasms. Additionally, specialists can prescribe medications to reduce saliva production and further alleviate symptoms. Rest assured that with the right care, individuals with ALS can improve their quality of life.
A feeding tube is often needed if ALS progresses to bypass swallowing.
To alleviate respiratory problems, a respiratory mask can be used to provide non-invasive ventilatory support. Alternatively, machine ventilation can be administered via a tracheostomy, which involves creating an opening in the neck to access the trachea. Both methods are effective in cases of restricted lung function, improving oxygen levels and alleviating symptoms of respiratory distress. It’s important to note that a detailed explanation of the available options should be provided by an experienced pulmonologist who specializes in treating lung-related conditions.
As ALS progresses, patients find it increasingly challenging to communicate. However, computer systems that can be controlled via finger or eye movements can be helpful for them. Since ALS can cause significant emotional stress, regular psychological counseling should be provided to support the patient.
ALS prognosis
Despite the absence of a cure for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, modern medicine is committed to improving the lives of patients who suffer from the condition. The disease causes progressive paralysis of the muscles, particularly the respiratory muscles, which can ultimately lead to death within a few years of diagnosis. However, medical intervention can help alleviate symptoms, enhance the quality of life, and provide hope for those suffering from the debilitating disease.
HOW do Robotic manipulators help ALS patients?
The integration of robotic manipulators could prove to be beneficial in enhancing the independence of individuals living with ALS. For future studies, it is essential to consider the balance between the user’s ability level and the capabilities of the robot to ensure a positive user experience and efficient task performance. By addressing these concerns, we can pave the way for a more constructive and empowering future for individuals living with ALS.
Robotic manipulators can help individuals with ALS to become more self-reliant. However, a crucial consideration for future research is how to balance the individual’s current ability level with the necessary robotic capabilities to ensure that they are delighted with the device and can perform tasks effectively and efficiently.
ALS patients and caregivers must have control and independence in their use to ensure widespread and early adoption of these technologies.
Currently, there is no cure for ALS, but there are treatments available that can help manage symptoms, slow the progression of the disease, and improve quality of life. Riluzole and Edaravone are two medications that the FDA has approved for the treatment of ALS. Additionally, multidisciplinary care involving physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and nutritional support can significantly help manage the symptoms and support individuals living with ALS.
It is important to remember that emerging technologies can inspire and empower younger, educated, and professionally active patients. At the same time, we must also recognize that older patients not previously trained on such technologies may face challenges. However, with the support and guidance of specialists from multidisciplinary centers, these patients can overcome these difficulties and embrace the benefits of these new technologies.
