Motor Neurone Disease
Motor neurone disease (MND; also known as amyotrophic lateral
sclerosis and Lou Gehrig's disease) is a progressive degenerative
disease that affects muscular function. Its hallmark is the selective
death of motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord, which leads to
paralysis of voluntary muscles. Motor neurons are nerve cells
located in the brain and spinal cord that control and provide
instruction for the movement of those muscles we use to move, speak,
swallow and breathe. With the progressive death of these neurons,
muscles become paralysed and they waste away (atrophy). Death is
caused by respiratory failure, which typically occurs within 2-5 years
of developing this debilitating condition.
At the diagnostic stage, most people have little or no prior knowledge
of MND and are devastated to find they have a fatal disease without a
cause or treatment. As the disease process advances, patients
become reliant on others for assistance with activities of daily
living. This can be physically and emotionally demanding for
families and carers and patients can experience feelings of guilt,
frustration and hopelessness.
More to follow...
Further Information
Motor Neuron Association of Australia - A community based website providing information, research updates and support/volunteer services to patients and carers
