people are living with ALS around the world
Canadians are currently living with ALS
Canadians are diagnosed with ALS each year
of people with ALS die within two to three years of diagnosis
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (also know as ALS, Lou Gehrig’s disease, or motor neuron disease) is a disease that progressively paralyzes people.
This occurs because the brain is no longer able to communicate with the muscles of the body that we are typically able to move at will. Over time, as the muscles of the body break down, someone living with ALS will lose the ability to walk, talk, eat, swallow, and eventually breathe.
Symptoms and signs of ALS, and the order in which they occur, vary from one person to another and may seem trivial or be dismissed as normal signs of aging. It is important to note that not everyone will experience all of the signs and symptoms listed below.
The senses of sight, touch, hearing, taste and smell are usually not affected, and for many people, muscles that control the eyes, bladder and sexual function remain functional.
A neurologist will typically diagnose ALS through a process of reviewing symptoms and eliminating other possible diseases.
Although there is no cure for ALS, there are treatments available that can help manage ALS-related symptoms, as well as ongoing clinical trials across Canada.
ALS Canada offers education, support, and practical tools to help with the challenges of living with ALS.
Obtaining a diagnosis of ALS can be a difficult process. We have the information and tools to make it easier.
We use cookies and other technologies to understand how you use our site and to improve your experience and provide you with valuable content. By continuing on this website, you consent to the use of these cookies. For more information and to opt-out of cookies, visit the cookie section of our privacy policy.
