I am Motor Neurone
I am Motor neurone disease, you might also know me as
progressive muscular atrophy, or progressive bulbar palsy, or
and primary lateral sclerosis, or Lou Gehrig's disease; All the
while I just prefer being called MND for short.
All these fancy names and all you want to know is if you have me
or not. Read on. Usually I, motor neurone disease, exist in those
individuals that are between the ages of 40-70, with my average
being a respectable 55. Don't get excited quickly thinking that
I only attack those over 40 and under 70 years of age, as I have
cases that range from 18 to over 100. Primarily I am
characterized by "The progressive loss of voluntary muscle
contraction due to the destruction of nerve cells in the brain
and the spinal cord that are responsible for the stimulation of
the voluntary muscles." Although my initial symptoms can be
sneaky and a little under the table (subtle), I will down the
road cause progressive physical disability.
I am found easily by medical professionals who can easily spot
signs, for example: upper motor neuron damage signs. Upper motor
neuron damage signs are things such as spasticity, lively
reflexes and Babinski signs. Again, don't get excited as I also
can be found in the lower neurones. This can lead to (among
others): - Swallowing - Difficulty breathing - Coughing -
Speaking
If you are experiencing any of my symptoms mentioned above I
recommend that you take a look, and quickly, into visiting your
local doctor or physician. Once properly diagnosed they will be
able to point you in the right direction for how you will be
able to deal with me.