What You Need To Know About Als

This book offers an accessibly written introduction to ALS, focusing on the topics that matter most to anyone whose life has been affected--directly or indirectly--by this condition. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or Lou Gehrig's disease, is a neurodegenerative disease that affects the motor neurons that drive voluntary movement. Those diagnosed with ALS experience difficulty moving and speaking and, as the condition worsens, difficulty swallowing and breathing. Beyond this definition, however, what do those affected by ALS need to know? What You Need to Know about ALS is a part of Greenwood's Inside Diseases and Disorders series. This series profiles a variety of physical and psychological conditions, and distills vast collections of scientific knowledge into concise, readable volumes. A list of "Top 10" essential questions begins each book, providing quick-access answers to readers' concerns. The text follows a standardized structure, with each chapter exploring a particular facet of the topic. In addition to covering causes, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options, books in this series delve into issues that are less commonly addressed but still critical to understand, such as effects on loved ones and caregivers. Case illustrations highlight key themes discussed in the book and are accompanied by insightful analyses and recommendations.

This volume provides an evidence-based guide to the care of people with ALS/MND, including the control of symptoms, the psychosocial care of patients and their families, and care in bereavement.

Discover "ALS Q&A" – Your Essential Guide to Understanding Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Are you seeking clear, comprehensive, and reliable information about Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)? Look no further! "ALS Q&A" by Ahmed Bayouda is your ultimate resource, offering an in-depth exploration of this challenging neurodegenerative disease in an easy-to-read question-and-answer format. Why Choose "ALS Q&A"? Comprehensive Coverage: This ebook covers everything you need to know about ALS, from basic definitions and symptoms to advanced diagnostic methods and the latest treatment options. It’s designed to cater to patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and anyone interested in learning more about ALS. Accessible and Clear: Written in a straightforward Q&A format, "ALS Q&A" breaks down complex medical information into digestible answers. Whether you're a medical expert or a curious reader, you'll find the content engaging and easy to understand. Up-to-Date Information: Stay informed with the latest research findings, emerging therapies, and innovative approaches to ALS management. This ebook ensures you're equipped with current and relevant knowledge. Practical Advice: Discover actionable tips for managing symptoms, improving quality of life, and accessing support resources. "ALS Q&A" provides practical guidance to help you navigate the challenges of ALS effectively. What You'll Learn: What is ALS? Gain a solid understanding of ALS, its causes, and its impact on the nervous system. Early Symptoms and Diagnosis: Recognize the early signs of ALS and learn about the diagnostic process. Treatment Options: Explore current treatments, medications, and therapeutic approaches. Living with ALS: Find out how to manage daily life, from mobility aids to dietary considerations. Research and Future Directions: Stay updated on cutting-edge research and potential future treatments. Support Networks: Learn where to find emotional and practical support for patients and caregivers. Get Your Copy Today! Don’t miss out on this invaluable resource. Whether you’re directly affected by ALS or seeking to expand your knowledge, "ALS Q&A" is an essential addition to your library. Take the first step towards understanding ALS better. Purchase "ALS Q&A" today and empower yourself with knowledge and practical advice that makes a difference.

This book offers an accessibly written introduction to ALS, focusing on the topics that matter most to anyone whose life has been affected—directly or indirectly—by this condition. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or Lou Gehrig's disease, is a neurodegenerative disease that affects the motor neurons that drive voluntary movement. Those diagnosed with ALS experience difficulty moving and speaking and, as the condition worsens, difficulty swallowing and breathing. Beyond this definition, however, what do those affected by ALS need to know? What You Need to Know about ALS is a part of Greenwood's Inside Diseases and Disorders series. This series profiles a variety of physical and psychological conditions, and distills vast collections of scientific knowledge into concise, readable volumes. A list of "Top 10" essential questions begins each book, providing quick-access answers to readers' concerns. The text follows a standardized structure, with each chapter exploring a particular facet of the topic. In addition to covering causes, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options, books in this series delve into issues that are less commonly addressed but still critical to understand, such as effects on loved ones and caregivers. Case illustrations highlight key themes discussed in the book and are accompanied by insightful analyses and recommendations.

Navigating Life with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis provides accessible, comprehensive, and up-to-date information about the challenges patients, family members, and caregivers face when confronted by ALS, a disease that affects approximately 5,600 Americans every year, with as many as 30,000 people managing the disease at any given time. ALS is a difficult disease for the patient and is also challenging for the caregiver and family as there are many questions, issues relating to care, and problems to manage. This guide covers all aspects of managing ALS, from the onset of symptoms, diagnosis, treatments, and coping strategies, to the use of home health care or hospice, and new research in the field. The book also sheds lights on difficult topics, such as end-of-life care and managing legal affairs. Navigating Life with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis is unique because it covers two perspectives: one author is a neurologist with 30 years of experience treating ALS patients, and the other author experienced first-hand the issues in providing care for a parent with ALS. Formatted in a question-and-answer style, peppered throughout with patient stories, and with sections devoted to family members and caregivers, this compassionate resource provides guidance to those seeking to understand how to live with this disease.

This book address both the emotional and psychological issues associated with death and dying and the practical and medical realities typically dealt with at this time-unusual among titles in this subject area. The authors, a psychologist and medical doctor, are passionate advocates for quality end-of-life care. Author Feldman's background in positive psychology brings an emphasis on hope, inspiration, meaning, and human connection at the end of life to the book. As medical technology progresses and life expectancies edge upward, families are being faced with ever-more-complicated choices as loved ones approach their final hours. This book offers readers much-needed guidance and support for making these often difficult decisions.

This volume provides comprehensive background for understanding amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and a critical review of research. It points out the distinguishing characteristics of the disease and testing procedures for reliable diagnosis.

Significant advances have increased our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), yet this has not translated into any greatly effective therapies. It appears that a number of abnormal physiological processes occur simultaneously in this devastating disease. Ideally, a multidrug regimen, including glutamate antagonists, antioxidants, a centrally acting anti-inflammatory agent, microglial cell modulators (including tumor necrosis factor alpha [TNF-alpha] inhibitors), an antiapoptotic agent, 1 or more neurotrophic growth factors, and a mitochondrial function-enhancing agent would be required to comprehensively address the known pathophysiology of ALS. Remarkably, cannabis appears to have activity in all of those areas. Preclinical data indicate that cannabis has powerful antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects. In the G93A-SOD1 ALS mouse, this has translated to prolonged neuronal cell survival, delayed onset, and slower progression of the disease. Cannabis also has properties applicable to symptom management of ALS, including analgesia, muscle relaxation, bronchodilation, saliva reduction, appetite stimulation, and sleep induction. With respect to the treatment of ALS, from both a disease modifying and symptom management viewpoint, clinical trials with cannabis are the next logical step. Based on the currently available scientific data, it is reasonable to think that cannabis might significantly slow the progression of ALS, potentially extending life expectancy and substantially reducing the overall burden of the disease.In the United States, ALS also is called Lou Gehrig's disease, named after the Yankees baseball player who died of it in 1941. In the United Kingdom and some other parts of the world, ALS is often called motor neurone disease in reference to the cells that are lost in this disorder.Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (a-my-o-TROE-fik LAT-ur-ul skluh-ROE-sis), or ALS, is a progressive nervous system (neurological) disease that destroys nerve cells and causes disability.ALS is often called Lou Gehrig's disease, after the famous baseball player who was diagnosed with it. ALS is a type of motor neuron disease in which nerve cells gradually break down and die.Doctors usually don't know why ALS occurs. Some cases are inherited.ALS often begins with muscle twitching and weakness in a limb, or slurred speech. Eventually, ALS affects control of the muscles needed to move, speak, eat and breathe. There is no cure for ALS, and eventually the disease is fatal.