Understanding Slow-Progressing Motor Neuron Disease (ALS)

Motor neuron disease, also called amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or Lou Gehrig's disease, is a disease of the spinal cord and brain that affects voluntary muscle movement. This disease restricts routine movements, eating and breathing and can be slowed with treatment.

Prolong Life

• Doctors may prescribe riluzole to prolong a patient's life, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine. There is no cure or treatment that will reverse motor neuron disease.

Treat Symptoms

• Motor neuron disease patients may take diazepam or baclofen to control muscle spasticity that interferes with everyday functioning. Patients with swallowing difficulties may take drugs such as amitriptyline.

Feeding

• Patients with motor neuron disease who are unable to swallow food may have a tube inserted into the stomach for feeding.

Other Treatments

• Doctors may prescribe devices to assist patients with breathing, braces or a wheelchair to help with mobility or physical therapy to improve muscle functioning.

Symptoms

• Patients with motor neuron disease may experience problems with breathing, swallowing and speech. Muscle weakness and paralysis can occur with this medical condition.