Research Paper According to www.medterms.com, ALS is defined as “a classic motor neuron disease. Motor neuron diseases are chronic progressive diseases of the nerves that originate from the spinal cord responsible for providing electrical stimulation to the muscles. This stimulation is necessary for the movement of body parts.” “1 in 10 cases is a genetic defect” (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis - National Library of Medicine, 2012). In the other nine cases, the cause could not be determined. As stated by the ADAM Medical Encyclopedia, “ALS affects approximately 5 in 100,000 people worldwide” (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis - National Library of Medicine, 2012). ALS is also known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. It is often called Lou Gehrig's disease. The name comes from the famous New York Yankees player, Lou Gehrig, who lost his battle with ALS in 1941. From this tragedy came some light; ALS has captured the nation's attention. ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease attacks the muscles of the body. Typically, symptoms do not begin until age 50 or older. However, it is possible to show symptoms at a young age. It is a disease that progresses extremely quickly. Unfortunately, as the disease progresses, the loss of muscle strength worsens. The reduction in muscle strength slowly worsens until paralysis or death. The symptoms of ALS are as follows: muscle cramps, muscle weakness, difficulty breathing and difficulty swallowing. Other symptoms include slurring, hoarseness, and weight loss. ALS does not affect the five senses of the body. Eventually, Lou Gehrig's disease will prevent the body from performing daily activities such as driving, climbing stairs, and eating. There are two components in the... center of the card... not provided as an option and need to be positioned. This surgical procedure of placing a feeding tube is known as a gastrostomy. A surgery like this is very expensive and ultimately amounts to around $4,500. While struggling with ALS, it is recommended that you turn to a personal nutritionist for guidance. This is mainly due to the fact that a very common side effect in all ALS patients is a drastic decrease in weight. Other symptoms can be tamed with treatments such as “Baclofen or Diazepam for Interfering Spasticity.” Trihexyphenidyl or Amitriptyline for people with problems swallowing their own saliva” (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis – National Library of Medicine, 2012). Patients may also consider a respirator for nighttime use. Complications of ALS include "aspiration" (WebMD - Lou Gehrig's disease), pneumonia, lung failure, and severe weight loss.