MOTOR NEURON DISEASE

Motor neuron disease is a set of disorders in which the nerves in the brain and spine gradually malfunction.  They’re a type of degenerative disorder that’s uncommon but deadly.

Furthermore, motor neurons are referred to nerve cells that produce electrical activity signals to the muscles, determining how well they work.

The onset of motor neuron disease may occur at any age, although it is more prevalent in those over the age of 40. Nonetheless, men are more affected than females.

SYMPTOMS

There are three phases of motor neuron disease: early, middle, and advanced. Symptoms associated with each phase include:

Early phase symptoms

Symptoms emerge slowly in the early phases and can be confused with those of other illnesses. The symptoms vary, depending on the type and location of the disease in the body.

The legs, arms, respiratory system, or mouth are the most common sites for symptoms to appear. They are as follows:

  • Fatigue
  • Stumbling and clumsiness
  • Cramps, muscle pains, and twitches
  • Weakness in the legs and arms
  • Weight loss
  • Trouble swallowing
  • Weakening grip
  • Undesirable emotional reactions such as crying or laughing
  • Slurred speech

Middle phase symptoms

The early signs of the disease persist and worsen as the disease progresses. People may also have the following symptoms:

  • Joint pain
  • Problems with swallowing
  • Emotional state
  • Trouble moving
  • Muscle shrinkage
  • Breathing problems
  • Unmanageable yawning
  • Changes in behavior

Advanced phase symptoms

A person with advanced motor neuron illness will eventually require assistance to walk, eat, or breathe. Also, the disease can become life-threatening. The most frequent reason is breathing issues.

DIAGNOSIS

Motor neuron disease can be difficult to diagnose in its initial phases since it might mimic other disorders, such as multiple sclerosis.

Nevertheless, if a doctor may suspect that a patient has MND, they will be referred to a neurologist, who will conduct a health history, perform a thorough examination, and perhaps recommend additional testing, such as:

  • MRI
  • Urine and blood tests
  • Electromyography
  • Muscle biopsy
  • Lumbar puncture or spinal tap

TREATMENT

Although there is no treatment for motor neuron disease, medication can help to decrease its course and increase a person’s independence and comfort.

Supportive equipment and physical therapy are examples of techniques. Other options include:

  • Medications such as OTC pain relievers
  • Assistive therapies and devices

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