Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurological condition that affects nerve cells responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movement. Although symptoms can vary, recognizing potential early warning signs may help people seek medical attention sooner.
According to Dr. Senda Ajroud-Driss, MD, a neurologist and neuromuscular medicine specialist at Northwestern Medicine, approximately one in 400 people may develop ALS during their lifetime. However, diagnosing the condition is not always straightforward.
In a video, the specialist explained that there is no single test that can confirm ALS. Instead, doctors must conduct multiple tests and evaluate the results together to reach a diagnosis.
Dr. Ajroud-Driss also highlighted several symptoms people should not ignore. Here are three warning signs she discussed.
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1. Weakness That Develops Over Time
One potential early warning sign of ALS is muscle weakness that gradually develops over several weeks or months.
Dr. Ajroud-Driss explained that weakness may be particularly concerning when it occurs alongside muscle wasting, twitching, or stiffness. She also noted that this type of weakness typically does not come with pain, numbness, or tingling.
While muscle weakness can have many possible causes, persistent or progressive changes should be evaluated by a medical professional.
2. Muscle Twitching, Wasting, or Stiffness
Muscle changes can also accompany the weakness associated with ALS. According to Dr. Ajroud-Driss, muscle wasting, twitching, and stiffness are among the symptoms to watch for when weakness develops over time.
These symptoms alone do not mean someone has ALS, but a combination of progressive muscle changes may warrant further evaluation.
3. Slurred Speech and Difficulty Swallowing
Changes in speech are another potential warning sign identified by the neurologist. Dr. Ajroud-Driss explained that slurred speech may develop gradually over weeks or months, with speech becoming slower and more nasal.
She added that these changes may occur alongside difficulty swallowing and unexplained weight loss. If a brain MRI performed to investigate slurred speech does not reveal an explanation, doctors may need to consider other possible causes, including ALS.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Dr. Ajroud-Driss encouraged anyone experiencing concerning symptoms to contact their primary care physician, schedule an appointment with a neurologist, or seek additional information through Northwestern Medicine.
It's important to remember that these symptoms can be associated with several different medical conditions and do not automatically indicate ALS. Only a medical evaluation can help determine the underlying cause.
