{"id":13966,"date":"2023-10-10T13:54:19","date_gmt":"2023-10-10T13:54:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.drjamieahn.com\/?p=13966"},"modified":"2024-06-07T18:25:05","modified_gmt":"2024-06-07T18:25:05","slug":"empowering-als-patients-functional-medicines-promising-pathways","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.drjamieahn.com\/empowering-als-patients-functional-medicines-promising-pathways\/","title":{"rendered":"Empowering ALS Patients: Functional Medicine’s Promising Pathways"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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Approximately 5,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with ALS each year. ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, progressively robs individuals of their muscle control, affecting their ability to walk, talk, and even breathe. The impact on patients’ lives is profound and most search for a breakthrough that can offer relief and restoration.<\/p>

But amidst the challenges of ALS, a glimmer of hope can be offered by the functional medicine approach.<\/p>

While conventional treatments often focus on symptom management, functional medicine takes a different approach\u2014one that seeks to understand the root causes of disease and empowers patients with personalized strategies for healing. In the realm of ALS, functional medicine holds the potential to revolutionize treatment, providing renewed hope and possibilities.<\/p>

In this blog, we\u2019ll delve into the promising realm of functional medicine and explore how it can empower ALS patients. Uncover the potential of functional medicine, and witness the groundbreaking pathways that are reshaping the landscape of ALS treatment. With Functional Medicine approaches, we can significantly slow the progression of ALS and possibly help you regain some degree of function.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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What is ALS?<\/h2>
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that\u00a0affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. ALS primarily targets motor neurons, which are responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movement.

As ALS progresses, the motor neurons gradually degenerate and die, leading to a loss of muscle control and eventual paralysis. The exact cause of ALS is not yet fully understood, but a combination of genetic and environmental factors is believed to play a role in its development.

The symptoms of ALS typically manifest in muscle weakness, twitching, and cramping. As the disease progresses, individuals may experience difficulty with speaking, swallowing, and breathing. However, cognitive functions such as memory, reasoning, and sensory abilities are usually preserved, distinguishing ALS from some other neurodegenerative diseases.

ALS is a progressive condition, and its course varies from person to person. While the disease affects voluntary muscles, it does not typically impact the function of the heart, gastrointestinal tract, or bladder control.

There is currently no cure for ALS, but various treatments and therapies like those within the functional medicine approach, aim to manage symptoms, support quality of life, and\u00a0slow down the progression of the disease.\u00a0\u200b<\/div>

Early Symptoms of ALS<\/h2>
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) typically begins with subtle early symptoms that may vary from person to person. These initial signs may be overlooked or mistaken for other conditions.\u00a0

It is important to note that experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily indicate ALS, but if any concerns arise, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation. Here are some early symptoms commonly associated with ALS:
Early symptoms of ALS:Muscle Weakness:\u00a0Gradual muscle weakness is a hallmark early symptom of ALS. It often begins in one specific area, such as the hands, arms, legs, or feet. You may notice difficulty with tasks like gripping objects, buttoning clothes, or walking.

Muscle Twitching (Fasciculations):\u00a0Twitching or involuntary muscle contractions, known as fasciculations, may occur, typically in the arms, legs, or tongue. While muscle twitching can have various causes, persistent and widespread twitching could be a potential early sign of ALS.

Muscle Cramps:\u00a0Some individuals with ALS may experience muscle cramps, which are sudden, painful contractions of muscles. Cramps commonly affect the legs, but they can occur in other areas as well.

Muscle Stiffness and Spasticity:\u00a0ALS can lead to increased muscle stiffness and spasticity, causing difficulty with movement and coordination. This stiffness is often accompanied by muscle weakness.

Slurred Speech and Swallowing Difficulties:\u00a0ALS can affect the muscles responsible for speech and swallowing. Early symptoms may include slurred or slow speech, difficulty pronouncing words, or problems with swallowing food and liquids.

Fatigue and Exhaustion:\u00a0Feeling tired or fatigued more easily than usual, even after minimal exertion, can be an early sign of ALS. This fatigue is often unrelated to activity levels and may not improve with rest.

Unintended Weight Loss:\u00a0Some individuals with ALS may experience unexplained weight loss, which can occur due to muscle wasting and difficulty eating or swallowing.

It is important to remember that these early symptoms can have various causes, and experiencing one or more of them does not necessarily indicate ALS.\u00a0

However, if you have concerns about your health or notice persistent or worsening symptoms, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and appropriate diagnosis. The sooner you work with a functional medicine practitioner, the sooner you can manage your symptoms and stop them from progressing and worsening.<\/div>

Risk Factors for ALS<\/h2>
The exact cause of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is not fully understood, but research suggests that a combination of genetic and environmental factors may contribute to its development. There are some identified risk factors of ALS that may increase the likelihood of developing the disease.\u00a0

These include: