• There are two types of onset, limb or bulbar.  Although limb onset is more prevalent in those diagnosed with ALS, bulbar onset is displayed in speech, breathing and swallowing symptoms.  The bulbar onset often progresses faster. 
   
• Symptoms in three motor neuron regions must be displayed before an ALS diagnosis can be made, and other disorders eliminated.  There is no marker in order to make an exact diagnosis.  For this reason, many difficult and often painful tests must be performed to eliminate other possibilities, for which there may be a cure.
   
• The three motor neuron regions are upper motor neuron, lower motor neuron and the bulbar region.  The upper motor neuron effects muscle weakness; the lower motor neuron is displayed in nerve signalling and tested through EMG's (electromyography-nerve conduction); and the bulbar region.
   
• There is a familial form of ALS, known as fALS, which runs in families.  Approximately 10% of those with ALS have the familial form.  However, there is a 50/50 chance of all children born to an fALS patient to also carry the disease.  The other 90% of ALS patients are considered sporadic ALS.
   
• A very small percentage, less than 5%, may display dementia along with their ALS symptoms.

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 ALS March of Faces at www.march-of-faces.org