Neurology
Clinical reference
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) is fatal progressive motor neuron disease affecting upper and lower motor neurons. Median survival 3-5 years. Riluzole and Edaravone slow progression modestly.
ALS
Lou Gehrig's disease
amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
motor neuron disease
Latest evidence
Latest evidence
No evidence articles returned for this search yet.
Core official overview
What this condition is
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a nervous system disease that attacks nerve cells called neurons in your brain and spinal cord. These neurons transmit messages from your brain and spinal cord to your voluntary muscles - the ones you can control, like in your arms and legs. At first, this causes mild muscle problems. Some people notice: Trouble walking or running Trouble writing Speech problemsEventually, you…
Open official source →
Condition family & coding
Terms and documentation support
Condition matches & synonyms
Terms
Related diagnostic names, synonyms, and documentation wording that may appear in clinical references and charting.
ICD-10 quick links
Codes
For study support, terminology recognition, and documentation language.
Common tests
Tests performed
Common medications
Recognize the drug and the class
Related nursing diagnoses
NANDA diagnoses & care plans
Use these direct links to open nursing diagnoses and care-plan support related to Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.
Official education links
Plain-language study support
Useful for plain-language reinforcement and quick review.
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a nervous system disease that attacks nerve cells called neurons in your brain and spinal cord. These neurons transmit messages from your brain and spinal cord to your voluntary muscles - the ones you can control, like in your arms and legs. At first, this causes mild muscle problems. Some people notice: Trouble walking or running Trouble writing Speech problemsEventually, you…
Degenerative Nerve Diseases
Degenerative nerve diseases affect many of your body's activities, such as balance, movement, talking, breathing, and heart function. Many of these diseases are genetic. Sometimes the cause is a medical condition such as alcoholism, a tumor, or a stroke. Other causes may include toxins, chemicals, and viruses. Sometimes the cause is unknown.Degenerative nerve diseases include:Alzheimer's diseaseAmyotrophic lateral s…
Medicare
Medicare is the U.S. government's health insurance program for people age 65 or older. Some people under age 65 can qualify for Medicare, too. They include those with disabilities, permanent kidney failure, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.Medicare helps with the cost of health care. It does not cover all medical expenses or the cost of most long-term care. The program has four parts:Part A is hospital insurancePart…
Paralysis
Paralysis is the loss of muscle function in part of your body. It happens when something goes wrong with the way messages pass between your brain and muscles. Paralysis can be complete or partial. It can occur on one or both sides of your body. It can also occur in just one area, or it can be widespread. Paralysis of the lower half of your body, including both legs, is called paraplegia. Paralysis of the arms and le…
