Additional ALS symptoms

Reflexive symptoms

ALS affects upper and lower motor neurons. The different neurons (upper in the brain, lower in the spine) are responsible for different symptoms as well. Symptoms of upper motor neuron involvement include:

• Hyperreflexia – exaggerated reflexes, including an overactive gag reflex
• Babinski's sign – an abnormal reflex in which the large toe extends upward as the sole of the foot is stimulated in a certain way

Cognitive symptoms

Although ALS does involve the brain's ability to communicate with the body, it does not affect the ability to think or reason. People with ALS still experience the world through their five senses, even though they may not be able to communicate or respond as they once did. Because people with ALS are aware of their progressive loss of function, they may become anxious and depressed.

According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, a small percentage of those with ALS may experience problems with memory or decision-making. There is also evidence that some people may even develop a form of dementia.