Primary Lateral Sclerosis
Primary Lateral Sclerosis Causes
Primary lateral sclerosis is caused by degeneration and eventually death of the upper motor neurons present in the brain and spinal cord, which causes weakness of voluntary muscles.
Primary Lateral Sclerosis Definition
Primary lateral sclerosis is a progressive degenerative characterized by progressive muscle weakness present in the voluntary muscles. The disease belongs to the category of motor neuron diseases; which usually develops when nerve cells responsible for voluntary muscle movement degenerate and die.
Primary Lateral Sclerosis Diagnosis
Careful clinical examination is performed by a qualified health professional to rule out other conditions presenting the same symptoms. Complete neurological examination can be helpful in providing diagnosis of primary lateral sclerosis. Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the brain and spine can provide a more detailed presentation of both areas to find out evidence causing spasticity of the muscles.
Primary Lateral Sclerosis Symptoms and Signs
Symptoms suggesting primary lateral sclerosis include difficulty in maintaining balance leading to clumsiness due to stiffness or weakness in the legs, sudden and uncontrolled muscle spasm and twinges in the extremities, and foot dragging. Speech difficulties may also occur when the facial muscles are involved.
Primary Lateral Sclerosis Treatment
There is no treatment that can cure, prevent, stop, or set back primary lateral sclerosis. Treatment is usually aimed at relieving the symptoms including medications to lessen uncontrolled muscle spasms; physical therapy and essential exercise routines to preserve and encourage flexibility and strength; improve function by means of assistive devices and other modalities used in physical therapy.