Posted by CCF Neurolgy M.D. on February 05, 1998 at 16:26:22:

In Reply to: ???on ALS posted by kyla on February 05, 1998 at 15:25:00:

: Questions on ALS:

1. Can a young female get ALS? I have heard it is rare, but statistically speaking, what would the odds be?

2. Is painful nerves a symptom of ALS? (sort of like a throbbing headache, except the nerves throb all over the body)

3. Is the absence of fasiculations possible with ALS?

4. Are there any abnormalities found in the blood with ALS?

5. How quickly from onset do symptoms usually progress, and generally speaking, what symptoms typically occur first?

thanks for your time!

Dear Kyla,
ALS is a progressive neurological disorder for which there is not cure. It affects men and women. Some cases are hereditary others occur sporadically. The average age of symptom onset is 45 years. The clinical findings for ALS are very characteristic they usually start with weakness and atrophy of the muscles in the hands and the legs become "spastic". Other symptoms include difficulty with speech (slurred), difficulty swallowing (frequently choking), progression to generalized weakness and wasting off muscles, fatigue, and fasciulation (similar to muscles "jumping")over the arms, legs, and trunk. Sensory symptoms (throbbing etc.) are not found with ALS. There is no blood work to diagnose the disease but CK (which is a nonspecific lab test) may be elevated. An EMG is the recommended test. The disease is rapidly progressive and typically results in death (avg 3 years from onset)from respiratory failure. A good neurological exam is very important. If you are concerned about ALS, we have several neurologist here at the Cleveland Clinic which deal only with ALS patients (Dr. Mitsumoto). If your interested in cheduling an appointment call 1-800-CCF-Care. Ask for the neurology appointments secretary.