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Lou Gehrig's disease

Lou Gehrig's Disease, medically known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. It leads to the gradual degeneration of motor neurons, which control voluntary muscles. As these neurons die, individuals experience muscle weakness, difficulty speaking, swallowing, and breathing. Despite affecting physical abilities, cognitive function often remains intact. The exact cause is unknown, and there is currently no cure. Named after baseball player Lou Gehrig, who was diagnosed with the disease in the 1930s, ALS generally progresses rapidly, significantly impacting the quality of life.

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  • Image for Lou Gehrig's disease

    Lou Gehrig's disease, also known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), is a progressive neurologic condition that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. It leads to the gradual weakening and wasting away of muscles, eventually impacting movement and speaking. Individuals may experience symptoms like muscle stiffness, weakness, and difficulty swallowing. While the exact cause is unknown, ALS can occur sporadically or be inherited. There is currently no cure, but treatments focus on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. The disease is named after the famous baseball player Lou Gehrig, who was diagnosed with it in 1939.