Question

How is ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) treated?

• - Is there a cure?

• - How to treat symptoms and prevent complications

• - How long can a patient live with ALS

Answer 1

(1) ALS - AMYOTROPHIC LATERAL SCLEROSIS also called CHARCOT'S DISEASE or LOU GEHRID's DISEASE treatment is usually depends upon the stage and is treated by

* MEDICATIONS - Muscle relaxants,

* THERAPY - Physical therapies

* Supportive care

* Tracheostomy in case od severe ALS

(2) There is NO CURE for ALS.

(3) ALS symptoms like muscle cramps, spasms can be treated by medications like MUSCLE RELAXANTS like BACLOFEN or DIAZEPAM.

Another drug named RILUZOLE is used to traet ALS which belongs to the class of medications called BENZOTHIAZOLES.

These drugs will help to overcome symptoms to some extent and also helps in preventing complications.

(4) The patient can live upto an average of TWO to FIVE years from the time of diagnosis and even they can live LONGER THAN FIVE YEARS.