7 stages of ALS. Symptoms and progression of the disease.

Scientific sources usually refer to three major stages of ALS (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) - early, middle, and late. However, they are often further divided into seven stages for a more detailed view:

• Stage 1: Early symptoms include weakness or stiffness in the muscles of the limbs and torso or a change in vocal pitch.
• Stage 2: Symptoms become more noticeable, affecting daily activities like walking or holding objects.
• Stage 3: Increased difficulty in performing daily tasks, with worsening muscle weakness and loss of balance. Starting this stage, the patient may require living assistance from the family caregiver or a senior home care provider.
• Stage 4: Severe muscle weakness, requiring assistance for most activities and possibly needing a wheelchair for mobility.
• Stage 5: Difficulty swallowing and speaking, often requiring a feeding tube and speech-generating devices.
• Stage 6: Breathing problems, eventually requiring a ventilator to assist with respiration.
• Stage 7: Near-total paralysis, minimal voluntary movement, and complete dependence on caregivers.

Continue reading - ALS Diagnosis: What to Expect & How Home Care Can Help