Which of the following describes typical symptoms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)?

Prepare for the NCLEX exam effectively with our NCLEX Uworld Practice Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions with detailed hints and explanations to ensure you're ready for success!

Multiple Choice

Which of the following describes typical symptoms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)?

Explanation:
ALS is a disease that damages motor neurons, so its typical picture is progressive weakness and wasting of voluntary muscles. As the motor system degenerates, you often see trouble with speaking and swallowing because those muscles weaken, leading to dysarthria and dysphagia, along with limb weakness as the disease advances. Sensory and cognitive functions are usually preserved early on, so seizures, coma, visual disturbances, or hearing loss aren’t characteristic features. Abdominal pain and constipation aren’t related to the motor neuron decline seen in ALS.

ALS is a disease that damages motor neurons, so its typical picture is progressive weakness and wasting of voluntary muscles. As the motor system degenerates, you often see trouble with speaking and swallowing because those muscles weaken, leading to dysarthria and dysphagia, along with limb weakness as the disease advances. Sensory and cognitive functions are usually preserved early on, so seizures, coma, visual disturbances, or hearing loss aren’t characteristic features. Abdominal pain and constipation aren’t related to the motor neuron decline seen in ALS.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy