Early signs of ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) typically include muscle weakness, twitching, cramps, and subtle difficulties with speech or swallowing that start in one area and progress.
Common Early Symptoms
- Muscle weakness, often asymmetric in hands, arms, legs, or feet, leading to drops, trips, or trouble with buttons/tying laces.
- Muscle twitches (fasciculations) and cramps, especially in limbs, shoulders, or tongue, which may disrupt sleep.
- Slurred or nasal speech from weakening facial muscles.
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing due to tongue and facial muscle issues.
Other Possible Signs
Stiffness (spasticity), hand clumsiness, or leg weakness affecting walking can emerge early. Less common initial signs include unintended emotional displays like sudden laughing/crying or subtle behavioral changes such as apathy. These symptoms vary by person and often mimic aging or other issues, so consult a doctor for persistent changes.
