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extremely difficult.  Tests must be done to rule out any and all similar diseases first, such as nerve and muscle diseases.  Also, no single test exists that can confirm ALS is present.  Very comprehensive testing is necessary.  Some of the tests include electrodiagnostic tests, blood and urine studies, thyroid and parathyroid hormone levels, spinal tap, x-rays, magnetic resonance imaging, and muscle and nerve biopsies (“What is ALS” 4).  Yet, after all of this testing under the care of a physician, it is highly recommended that an “expert” is consulted.  An ALS “expert” is a physician who sees many other ALS patients.        Finally, after all testing is over, and a confirmation is reached, treatment must begin.  There is no cure for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.  Current treatment of ALS is aimed toward symptomatic relief.  Action is taken to try to prevent complications and allow the patient to maintain maximum function possible, and enjoy a high quality of life. Plans for obtaining this are usually based on a number of therapies.  Physical, occupational, speech, respiratory and nutritional therapies are combined in an effort manage symptoms.  Hydrotherapy is also useful to help muscle cramps (“ALS” 2).  Another form of treatment is drugs. Generally, they help muscle cramps, fight excessive saliva and drooling.  Drugs cannot cure this disease, but they may slow down the progression.  One drug used is Rilutek, the first of its kind to alter the course of ALS.  Approved by the FDA in 1995, it has shown that it can prolong a patient’s life by a few months (“What is ALS” 6).  Often drugs like this are experimental to begin with, and usually have long waiting lists.  In addition to Rilutek, steroids and vitamins are being used for relief of symptoms.  Sometimes the psychological effects of ALS