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Long-Term Care for ALS focuses on managing disease progression, maintaining function & ensuring timely nutritional & respiratory support to maximize quality of life & survival
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For ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), primary prevention focuses on measures that slow the progression of the disease itself. Unlike diseases where prevention means avoidance of lifestyle factors, ALS management requires immediate medical intervention upon diagnosis.
Early access to disease-modifying therapies is the most important primary intervention available.
Maintaining good nutrition is extremely important for people with ALS. Weight loss and poor nutrition can make the disease progress faster and shorten survival. The main goal is to keep body weight stable and prevent muscle weakness caused by losing too much weight.
Dietitians help patients choose foods that are safe to swallow and high in calories, especially as swallowing becomes harder.
High-Calorie Foods: Patients are encouraged to eat foods that are rich in calories and nutrients. This helps the body get enough energy as muscles weaken and use more energy.
Swallowing Safety: Speech therapists and dietitians may suggest thickened drinks or soft, pureed foods to prevent choking and protect the lungs from aspiration.
PEG Tube (Feeding Tube): One of the most important treatments is placing a feeding tube (PEG tube) at the right time.
Early placement helps patients live longer and improves daily comfort.
Hydration: Staying hydrated is also important. Some patients may need thickened liquids or special drinks if swallowing becomes difficult.
For ALS, Exercise programs are not curative but are crucial for maintaining range of motion and improving comfort. A physical therapist guides patients on activity levels that avoid undue strain on weakened muscles.
The goal is to prevent stiffness and retain functional ability for as long as possible.
Managing the intense psychological and emotional toll of ALS is a core component of long-term care. Stress management techniques for the patient and family involve professional psychological support and open communication about care goals.
Palliative care specialists integrate early to help manage anxiety, depression, and existential distress.
Managing the home environment is very important for people with ALS. The goal is to keep patients safe and prevent injuries from weak muscles or limited mobility. Simple changes at home can make life easier and safer.
Preventing Falls: Falls are dangerous and can lead to serious injuries or hospitalization. Take steps to reduce the risk at home.
Home Changes:
Assistive Devices: Use braces, walkers, or power wheelchairs as soon as they are needed to stay mobile and safe.
Choking Safety: Work with speech therapists to manage swallowing risks:
Secondary prevention for ALS is critical, as it focuses on preventing complications that directly shorten survival, primarily respiratory failure and severe malnutrition. Proactive monitoring and intervention are the hallmarks of this stage.
Timely intervention in respiratory and nutritional support is proven to extend survival.
Regular checkup and screening recommendations emphasize frequent visits to the specialized multidisciplinary ALS clinic. These visits are more frequent than typical checkups, usually occurring every two to three months.
The goal is early identification of changes in pulmonary function and nutritional status.
Send us all your questions or requests, and our expert team will assist you.
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