Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, is a motor neuron disorder that results in progressive nerve cell degeneration in the brain and spinal cord. It is also called Lou Gehrig’s (christened after a baseball player who died from the condition). ALS impairs muscle and nerve function but does not hamper one’s senses or mental functioning. It is also not contagious. Here are a few tips for managing the disorder in the long run.

1. Consider therapy
Doctors may suggest different therapies for managing ALS, such as physical, occupational, speech, and breathing therapy. Here’s a quick look at each option:

• Physical therapy: It helps patients improve mobility and manage pain. A physical therapist may recommend mobility aids like wheelchairs and devices like ramps to make life easier. The expert may also suggest low-impact exercises to boost cardiovascular function and overall health.
• Occupational therapy: It helps patients retain their independence for longer. Occupational therapists train people to compensate for arm and hand weakness. They also help pick assistive technologies and adaptive equipment necessary for one to go on with their daily routine.
• Speech therapy: It is beneficial when ALS results in trouble speaking. Speech therapists teach different communication techniques and help patients use computer-based communication equipment.
• Breathing therapy: Patients might benefit from breathing therapy since their respiratory muscles weaken with ALS. It mainly involves using a breathing device at night. Doctors may sometimes suggest mechanical ventilation. Here, a respirator is attached to one end of a tube, and the other end goes into the windpipe via tracheostomy.

2. Pick the right foods
As ALS progresses, patients experience difficulty swallowing, which makes receiving adequate nutrients challenging. Hence, nutritional support is crucial. One can consult a registered nutritionist for help choosing foods that are easy to swallow. Patients can also discuss the possibility of using feeding tubes and suction devices.

3. Maintain social contact
Conditions like ALS can lead to stress and anxiety. Hence, patients should connect with their friends and loved ones and participate in social activities. One can also consider joining online or in-person support groups. These groups bring together people suffering from similar conditions so that they can share their experiences and support each other.

4. Plan and create a management strategy
It is essential to create a management strategy when dealing with conditions like ALS. One can consult an expert to learn the steps they need to take when their symptoms flare up or their condition suddenly worsens. Patients can also hire caregivers to assist them with daily tasks and look after their health.

5. Invest in assistive equipment
ALS leads to a loss of motor control in the hands and arms, making eating difficult. Therefore, patients are advised to invest in easy-to-hold cutlery, hand wipes, and tissues. In addition, one can register for a disability sign for the car. Furthermore, patients can make changes around the home, such as investing in a device that elevates the toilet seat.

6. Learn about the sources of financial help
Since long-term treatment can be expensive, patients should learn about the financial aid they can receive via Medicaid, Medicare, and other programs. Veterans may have access to exclusive healthcare benefits.

While ALS can occur at any age, it is most prevalent in people between 40 and 70. Since it is not curable, doctors design a strategy for disease management.