Understanding ALS: The Disease That Claimed Eric Dane

Feb 20, 2026

75 min

Feb 20, 2026 18:30

## What is ALS?

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurological disorder that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. This leads to muscle weakness and eventual paralysis. The disease is named after the famous baseball player Lou Gehrig, who was diagnosed in 1939.

## Symptoms and Progression

Early signs of ALS can include muscle twitching and weakness, particularly in the arms or legs. As the disease progresses, individuals may experience difficulty with mobility, speaking, swallowing, and breathing. While cognitive functions typically remain intact, the muscles responsible for these vital functions gradually lose their ability to function.

## Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing ALS can be challenging as there is no single test for confirmation. Doctors rely on physical examinations, lab tests, and imaging studies to rule out other conditions. Although there is no cure, treatments like the drug riluzole can help manage symptoms and potentially extend survival. Other medications may be used to alleviate specific symptoms, and supportive devices such as wheelchairs and speech synthesizers can assist with daily living.

## Impact and Prognosis

ALS is relatively rare, with around 33,000 cases estimated in 2022, and numbers expected to rise. The disease is slightly more prevalent in men and typically appears between ages 40 and 60. Most patients live between two to five years after diagnosis, although some may survive longer. The condition ultimately leads to respiratory failure, which is the most common cause of death in ALS patients.

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