Actor Eric Dane, popular for his roles in Grey’s Anatomy and Euphoria, revealed that he has been diagnosed with ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
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In an exclusive interview with People Magazine, the 52-year-old actor shared the information of his diagnosis. "I have been diagnosed with ALS. I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter,” said Dane.
What is ALS?
ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, is a neurodegenerative condition that affects the nerve cells, also known as neurons, in the brain and the spinal cord. This condition targets the motor neurons of the individual, that regulate voluntary muscle movements and breathing.
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ALS, often known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is named after Lou Gehrig who was a famous baseball player. He was also diagnosed with ALS.
What are the types of ALS?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, there are two types of ALS based on their cause. They are Sporadic ALS and Familial ALS.
An estimated 90% of all ALS cases are sporadic. Which means that this form of ALS condition happens randomly and is not inherited. Familial ALS on the other hand is inherited from one or both of the biological parents during conception. A gene change causes it. About 10% of ALS cases are familial.
What are the signs to look out for?
The symptoms of ALS can vary from person to person as they depend on which nerve cells are affected. As per Mayo Clinic, people can look out for the following signs of ALS diagnosis: Trouble walking or doing usual daily chores, and tripping and falling. People can also feel weakness in their legs, feet or ankles. Noticeable signs also include hand weakness or clumsiness, slurred speech or trouble swallowing.
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Look out for weakness associated with muscle cramps and twitching in the arms, shoulders and tongue. Some people may also experience untimely crying, laughing or yawning and behavioral changes.
ALS often starts in the hands, feet, arms or legs. Then the disease spreads to other parts of the body, weakening the muscles as more nerve cells die. Eventually, this affects chewing, swallowing, speaking and breathing.
