Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
ALS, also known as Lou Gherig disease or Motor Neuron Disorder, is a neurodegenerative disease that is progressive in nature. It affects the nerves of the brain and spinal cord that innervate the voluntary muscles of the body, causing degeneration of their motor neurons. The voluntary muscles become weakened, progressing to paralysis. However, all other senses and cognitive abilities remain intact. The major complications that arise with ALS is swallowing and breathing difficulties, which are usually the cause of death in these patients.
I have had an interest in ALS since nursing school when I was on a neuro floor taking care of an ALS patient. I am also writing a research paper on the subject. Listed below are a few of the websites and journals I have visiting during my research. They have all been helpful to find a variety of information, from current treatments to caring for a patient with ALS.
ALS Association- What is ALS?
http://www.alsa.org/about-asl/what-is-als.html
This page gives a general overview of this disease, including history of the disease in simple terminology.
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke- ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) Fact Sheet
http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/amyotrophiclateralsclerosis/details_ALS.htm
Information about ALS, signs and symptoms, general population effected, treatments and current research.
Mayo Clinic- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/amyotrophic-lateral-sclerosis/DS00359
Mayo Clinic’s site offers several links about ALS that progress through disease diagnosis to coping and support.
UCS San Diego School of Medicine- ALS and Motor Neuron Disorder Center: Current Projects in ALS and Motor Neuron Disorder Research
http://als.ucsd.edu/research/Pages/current-projects.aspx
This site offers a quick overview of research taking place at USC regarding new treatments for ALS using stem cells and medications.
EbscoHOST- JAMA: New Guidelines Suggest Ways to Optimize Treatment, Care of Patients with ALS
http://eagle.sbuniv.edu:2120/content/302/21/2303.full
This database offers many different search options and covers a broad array of topics. This article is centered around the care of ALS patients based on evidence-based practice.
CINAHLplus with Full Text- Journal of Clinical Nursing: Living with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/Motor Neuron Disease (ALS/MND): Decision-making about ‘ongoing changes and adaptation’
This database is centered around nursing and healthcare journals. This article looks at the psychological aspect of ALS.
