ALS

Question 1

What does ALS stand for?

Answer 1

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Question 2

Are upper motor neurons, lower motor neurons, or both affected by ALS?

Answer 2

Both

Question 3

T/F Intellectual functioning is not affected by ALS?

Answer 3

Thought not to be affected initially, but found that as some are living longer, it is affected in 30-40%

Question 4

How are bladder, bowel, and autonomic function affected by ALS?

Answer 4

Unimpaired initially, but has later secondary issues due to mobility.

Question 5

ALS usually develops between __-__ years

Answer 5

40-70 yrs

Question 6

Are males or females more at risk for ALS? How does this change with age?

Answer 6

Males, but with increased age difference disappears.

Question 7

4 risk factors for ALS:

Answer 7

Male
non-Hispanic
Over-exercise (maybe)
pesticide/chemical exposure

Question 8

First symptom of ALS is often _______________.

Answer 8

Asymmetric muscle weakness

Question 9

muscle weakness is often ______ to _______.

Answer 9

distal to proximal.

Question 10

The bulbar region of the brain is made up of the ______, _______, and ______.

Answer 10

Medulla, Cerebellum, and Pons

Question 11

The bulbar region is responsible for what?

Answer 11

Many involuntary movements

Question 12

Genral treatment guidelines for ALS:

Answer 12

Avoid overexertion. rest frequently. Exercise to prevent disuse of mm. Emphasize respiratory mm.