ALS Quiz (Lou Gehrigs Disease)

During ALS (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), the neurons in the brain that control voluntary muscle movement degenerate, leading to the loss of control over the muscles. This results in paralysis, where the affected individuals gradually lose their ability to move, speak, swallow, and breathe. The muscle weakness and paralysis experienced in ALS can affect various parts of the body, leading to difficulties in performing daily activities and eventually causing severe disability.

The disease referred to in the question is likely Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. Lou Gehrig was a famous American baseball player who was diagnosed with ALS in the 1930s. His diagnosis and subsequent battle with the disease brought significant attention to ALS, leading to the disease being commonly associated with his name. Therefore, the disease is named after Lou Gehrig.

The statement "There is a cure for ALS" is false. ALS, or Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that currently has no known cure. While there are treatments available to manage symptoms and slow down the progression of the disease, there is no definitive cure. Researchers and scientists are actively studying ALS to find potential treatments or a cure, but as of now, it remains incurable.

Neurodegenerative means the progressive deterioration and loss of function of neurons in the nervous system. This can occur due to various factors such as aging, genetic mutations, or disease processes. It is characterized by the gradual decline in cognitive and motor functions and can lead to conditions like Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Huntington's disease.

The correct answer is "All of the above" because the question asks for the symptoms of a certain condition, and all the options listed are symptoms. Muscle weakness, trouble speaking, swallowing, and breathing, as well as cramping muscles, are all potential symptoms that can occur in this condition.

The regular life expectancy once a person is diagnosed is generally around 3-5 years. This means that on average, individuals diagnosed with a certain condition or disease can expect to live for approximately 3-5 years after their diagnosis.

Symptoms that can be confused with stress are likely to exist. This means that there are certain symptoms that can be mistaken for stress, leading to confusion and misdiagnosis. It implies that stress can manifest itself in various physical and emotional symptoms, making it difficult to differentiate between stress and other underlying conditions.

Riluzole is the only medication mentioned in the options that has been proven to increase life expectancy. Motrin is a pain reliever and anti-inflammatory drug, Amytrophic is not a recognized medication, and Eye drops are used for treating eye conditions. Therefore, Riluzole is the correct answer as it is the only medication that has the potential to increase life expectancy.