ARTICLES / General /The
Nature of a Beast: Understanding ALS/
Other ArticlesBy Arleen M. Kaptur
When it comes to treatment, the FDA approved a
drug called Rilutek, which appears to slow the
progression of the disease. There are also several
other medications that can help with the relief of
symptoms, along with different therapies, vitamins,
antioxidants, and proper nutrition, which are
included as part of a treatment plan. In recent
years, the over-the-counter supplement creatine
seems to be effective in preventing ALS in studies
using mice.
The unfortunate truth at this point and time
regarding ALS is that it is almost always fatal,
with the majority of patients dying painlessly and
peacefully in their sleep, because of the build-up
of carbon dioxide in the blood, caused by
insufficient amounts of oxygen due to the shrinking
of muscles which help with breathing. But there is
also some good news, with the past five years seeing
more research conducted than in the last 150 years
since its discovery. Studies and research for other
neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s are
shedding new light on how to possibly treat ALS.
Also, many loved ones do not have to remain in bed
even though they may be totally paralyzed.
Thanks to the improvements of modern
technology, specially designed wheelchairs are
lightweight can accommodate portable ventilators,
allowing for loved ones to enjoy a lot more freedom
and movement than in prior years. The most important
thing that loved ones and their caregivers must
remember is that they need to surround themselves by
a strong network of support through family, friends,
and the medical team. Look to the future, because
there are hundreds of strides being made every day
in research for finding better treatment, as well as
to attaining the ultimate goal ... a cure.
The ALS Association
www.alsa.org
Les Turner Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Foundation
www.lesturnerals.org
Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA)
ALS Division
www.als-mda.org
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