nervous system - ALS and MS Flashcards
what is ALS
motor neuron disease
progressive degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons
what are the two types of motor neurons
upper - descend down from motor cortex to spinal cord
lower - from spinal cord to skeletal muscles
ALS life expectancy after diagnosis
2-5 years
early symptoms of ALS?
slight weakness in hands and limbs
mid stage symptoms as ALS progresses (weeks to months)?
muscle twitching
loss of motor control of hands/legs
tripping and increased falling
persistent fatigue
slurred speech
late-stage symptoms (>1yr)
difficulty breathing and swallowing. paralysis
causes of ALS
genetic mutations, environmental factors - exact cause unknown
what does MS affect
conduction of electrical signals in CNS - demyelinating disease
what age is MS commonly diagnosed
20s/30s
whats CIS
clinically isolated syndrome - first episode of MS causing inflammation and damage to nerves
RRMS?
relapsing-remitting MS - second stage of MS, follows predictable pattern, symptoms worsen then improve
SPMS?
secondary-progressive MS - third stage if MS left untreated. RRMS develops into more aggressive and progressive form.
pathophysiology of MS
formation of lesions in the CNS (plaques)
inflammation due to autoimmune response
destruction of myelin
MS symptoms
blurred vision, uncontrolled voluntary movement, loss of sensation and balance
treatment for ALS
incurable. symptom management - physical/occupational/speech therapists. exercise in moderation. hot sauna/steam rooms. drugs to prolong survival - riluzole/rilutek
