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Motor neuron disease (MND) is a rare condition that affects the brain and nerves. It causes weakness and it is degenerative, meaning that it gets worse over time.
There are several types of MND, but the most common is amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). In the US, ALS is used as a cover term for all types of MND.
There is no cure for MND and, unfortunately, it does eventually lead to death. However, there are treatments to improve the quality of life of someone with MND.
People with MND experience a wide range of symptoms, many of which may not be obvious at first. Furthermore, there are several other conditions that can cause similar symptoms.
That said, there are certainly some early signs to look out for. The first is weakness in your ankle or leg. You might find yourself tripping more often or struggling to climb stairs.
Another early symptom of MND is slurred speech. Over time, this may develop into a difficulty with swallowing certain foods.
Also possible are muscle cramps and/or twitches, as well as weight loss. A person with MND might experience their legs and arms getting thinner over time.
People with MND may also struggle with emotional lability, meaning that they find it difficult to stop themselves from crying or laughing in inappropriate situations.
These are some of the early signs of MND, but it is important to note that the list is not exhaustive and, in fact, this condition affects everyone differently.
Not everyone who is diagnosed with MND will have the same symptoms or in the same order. The rate of progression can also vary from person to person.
You may also find that you are beginning to have a weak grip. This can make it difficult to do everyday things such as open a jar or do up your shirt buttons.
The senses, for example, are usually unaffected, meaning that a person with MND can still see, hear, taste, smell, and feel sensations as they always did.
MND is a rare condition, and it tends to affect adults in their sixties, seventies, and eighties. However, it can affect adults of all ages.
In a person with MND, these cells gradually stop working over time. As it stands, scientists do not know exactly why this happens.
Having a close relative with a related condition called frontotemporal dementia can also sometimes mean that you are more likely to develop MND.
It is important to see a doctor if you think you may have possible early symptoms of MND, such as muscle weakness.
Given the rarity of MND it is unlikely you have the condition, but if you do, getting an early diagnosis is important when it comes to getting the help and care you need.
You should also see a doctor if a close relative has MND or frontotemporal dementia and you are concerned that you are at risk.
As previously mentioned, there are several conditions that can cause the same symptoms as MND. This can make it difficult to diagnose it in the early stages.
To complicate things further, there is no single test for MND. Instead, to rule out other conditions, your doctor may arrange blood tests, brain or spine scans, and/or tests to measure the electrical activity in your muscles and nerves.
Your doctor may also need to perform a lumbar puncture, which is where a thin needle is used to remove and test the fluid in your spine.
If MND is diagnosed, there are several treatments that can help reduce the impact of MND symptoms on your life.
These can include treatment at a specialized clinic, which usually involves attention from a specialized nurse and occupational therapy to help make everyday tasks easier.
Physiotherapy and exercises may also be prescribed to help maintain strength and reduce stiffness.
MND is a very challenging condition, both for the people living with it and for their friends and family. If you or someone you know is living with MND and struggling to cope, be sure to reach out to a medical professional and let them know you need more support.
Sources: (NHS) (Motor Neuron Disease Association)
There are also medications that are prescribed for MND patients, such as riluzole, which can slightly slow down the progression of the condition.
Motor neuron disease (MND), often referred to by the name of one of its varieties, ALS, is a degenerative condition that affects the brain and spinal cord. MND occurs when the motor neurons in these organs stop working, causing troubling and eventually fatal symptoms.
While there is no cure for MND, there are treatments that can improve an MND patient's quality of life. It is therefore important to recognize the early signs of MND, so that people can get the treatment they need as soon as possible.
Curious? Check out this gallery to learn more.
How to identify the early signs of motor neuron disease
Recognize the symptoms of this difficult condition
HEALTH Mnd
Motor neuron disease (MND), often referred to by the name of one of its varieties, ALS, is a degenerative condition that affects the brain and spinal cord. MND occurs when the motor neurons in these organs stop working, causing troubling and eventually fatal symptoms.
While there is no cure for MND, there are treatments that can improve an MND patient's quality of life. It is therefore important to recognize the early signs of MND, so that people can get the treatment they need as soon as possible.
Curious? Check out this gallery to learn more.