ALS Symptoms and Treatment
Introduction
No cure has yet been found for ALS. There is only one medication currently approved
by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of ALS. Please click here for more information.
However, treatments are available to help relieve symptoms and improve the quality
of life for people with ALS.
Relief of symptoms
Medications and other supportive measures may be necessary to relieve ALS-related
symptoms, such as:
- depression, anxiety, and insomnia
- shortness of breath
- excessive saliva or drooling
- muscle spasms, stiffness
- emotional lability
- weight loss, malnutrition
- constipation
- urinary urgency or frequency
Speak to your healthcare provider about the treatments available to relieve these symptoms.
Additional therapies
As ALS progresses and muscles weaken, patients may benefit from rehabilitation services
to enhance independence and maintain safety, such as:2
- Physical therapy -to strengthen muscles, improve cardiovascular
health, and fight fatigue.
- Occupational therapy -to maintain performance of daily
tasks.
- Speech therapy -because ALS affects the muscles used to
speak and swallow.
- Assistive devices -such as braces, canes, walkers, wheelchairs
and communication devices.
- Nutritional support -advice on foods that are nutritious
and easy to swallow; gastrostomy tube leadings.
- Emotional support -utilizing medication and counseling
if a patient becomes anxious or depressed.2
- Respiratory support -non invasive (BiPAP) or invasive (tracheostomy)
mechanical ventilation.
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