Diagnosingamyotrophic lateral sclerosis(ALS) is not straightforward.
There is no single test to confirm ALS.
It affects basic voluntary movements, such as walking, talking, and chewing.
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Over time, the brain can no longer initiate or control movement.
The muscles of the bodyatrophy, or waste away, causing more severe symptoms.
Self-Checks/At-Home Testing
There is no way to test for ALS at home.
However, knowing the symptoms can help you recognize when you should to talk to a healthcare provider.
Early ALS symptoms are usually subtle, but eventually become more noticeable as the muscles weaken.
You may notice that simple tasks such as buttoning a shirt or typing at the computer become more difficult.
If your leg is affected, you may trip or stumble more often.
They will also examine your reflexes to see if they respond faster than normal.
A provider will also look for another sign known asBabinski reflex.
With this reflex, the big toe moves upward when the bottom of the foot is stroked.
The most common test used for suspected ALS is anelectromyography(EMG).
In ALS, there is a distinct pattern of electrical activity in the muscles and nerves.
If this pattern is seen, your provider will order other tests to confirm the diagnosis.
In some cases, amuscle biopsymay also provide information that can lead to or exclude an ALS diagnosis.
Genetic testing can also be performed.
A Word From Verywell
Diagnosing ALS is not always straightforward and can take some time.
Experiencing symptoms of ALS will naturally cause some fear and concern.
Talking to your healthcare provider about these concerns can help you work through it.
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Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center.Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
Muscular Dystrophy Association.Diagnosis - amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
Gupta A, Nguyen TB, Chakraborty S, Bourque PR.Accuracy of Conventional MRI in ALS.Can J Neurol Sci.
2014;41(1):53-57. doi:10.1017/s0317167100016267
GeneReviews, Siddique N, Siddique T.Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis overview.
Updated September 30, 2021.
