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What is MND? -

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.

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What is ALS? -

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.

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About 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.

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Symptoms -

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.

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Early signs -

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.

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Slurred speech and difficulty swallowing -

Another early symptom of MND is slurred speech. Over time, this may develop into a difficulty with swallowing certain foods.

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Weak grip -

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.

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Cramps and twitches -

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.

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Emotional lability -

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.

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Non-exhaustive list -

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.

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Symptoms vary -

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.

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Not the whole body - Although the symptoms of MND tend to affect the body in a broad way, there are certain systems of the body that remain unaffected.

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The senses -

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.

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Who is at risk? -

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.

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Problem with neurons - We know that it is caused by a problem with the body’s motor neurons, which are cells in the brain and spinal cord. They help to tell our muscles what to do.

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Problem with neurons -

In a person with MND, these cells gradually stop working over time. As it stands, scientists do not know exactly why this happens.

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Genetic element - In general, MND does not run in families. However, in certain cases people with a close relative who has MND may be more likely to develop it.

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Links with frontotemporal dementia -

Having a close relative with a related condition called frontotemporal dementia can also sometimes mean that you are more likely to develop MND.

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When to see a doctor -

It is important to see a doctor if you think you may have possible early symptoms of MND, such as muscle weakness.

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The importance of early diagnosis -

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.

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Family history -

You should also see a doctor if a close relative has MND or frontotemporal dementia and you are concerned that you are at risk.

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Diagnosis -

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.

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No single test -

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.

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Lumbar puncture -

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.

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Treatment -

If MND is diagnosed, there are several treatments that can help reduce the impact of MND symptoms on your life.

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Occupational therapy -

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.

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Physiotherapy -

Physiotherapy and exercises may also be prescribed to help maintain strength and reduce stiffness.

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Medication -

There are also medications that are prescribed for MND patients, such as riluzole, which can slightly slow down the progression of the condition.

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Living with MND -

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)

See also: The most common genetic conditions in the world

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