Lou Gehrig’s Disease (ALS): Early Symptoms to Know
Lou Gehrig’s disease, also called amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), is a progressive neurological disease that affects nerve cells responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movement. Over time, it can weaken muscles involved in movement, speech, swallowing, and breathing.
Early symptoms can be subtle and may vary from person to person.
Common first symptoms of ALS
1. Muscle weakness in one area
A frequent early sign is weakness that begins in a specific part of the body, such as:
- A hand that feels clumsy or weak
- Trouble gripping objects
- Dropping things more often
- Difficulty buttoning clothes or using keys
- A foot that drags or causes tripping
The weakness is usually progressive and does not improve with rest.
2. Muscle twitching (fasciculations)
Small, involuntary muscle twitches may appear, often in:
- Arms
- Legs
- Shoulders
- Tongue
Twitching alone is common and usually has many possible causes, but persistent twitching together with weakness should be evaluated.
3. Muscle cramps and stiffness
Some people notice:
- Frequent muscle cramps
- Tight or stiff muscles
- Difficulty relaxing certain muscles
4. Changes in speech or swallowing
Early signs can include:
- Slurred speech
- A softer or more nasal voice
- Difficulty pronouncing words clearly
- Choking or coughing while eating or drinking
5. Changes in walking and balance
Possible early signs:
- Frequent stumbling
- Difficulty climbing stairs
- Weakness in the legs
- Problems with coordination
6. Fatigue and loss of endurance
Some people notice they tire more easily during activities that used to be manageable
