An initial symptom of ALS might be a weakness in a limb that develops over the course of weeks of months Later, this weakness may develop in another limb. Slurred speech or difficulty swallowing may also be initial symptoms. As ALS progresses, more and more symptoms occur.
Other symptoms may be:
- Muscle twitching and cramping, especially in the hands and feet
- Loss of motor control in the hands and arms
- Impairment in the use of arms and legs
- Tripping and falling
- Dropping things
- Persistent fatigue
- Uncontrollable laughing or crying
- Slurred or thick speech and difficulty in projecting the voice
As the disease progresses, patients may experience difficulty breathing and swallowing or paralysis.
