ALS affects the nerve cells within the brain and the spinal cord. Although the disease can present and progress differently in people, there are some warning signs to be aware of. If you find that you or your loved one has ALS, oral Edaravone can be used as a treatment, despite there being no current cure for the disease. Unfortunately, the Edaravone Als dose cost can be high, so it might be worth looking into healthcare plans or other available financial aids if you feel that it’s necessary. Before treatment can be considered, however, it’s important to be aware of some of the warning signs of ALS:

1. Slurred speech

Labored, slow, slurred speech and a voice that is breathy or hoarse—also known as dysarthria—is commonly caused by the tightening and weakening of muscles such as the ones in the lungs. If you begin to notice signs of slurred speech, it may be time to get in touch with a medical professional for further diagnosis.

2. Tight, stiff muscles

Abnormally stiffened and tightened muscles can come as a result of nerve loss. Otherwise known as spasticity, this is a warning sign associated with ALS. While muscle discomfort may occur as a result of strain or physical activity—or as a result of other conditions—it can also be an early warning sign of ALS to look out for.

3. Difficulty chewing and swallowing

For those with ALS, there might be some difficulty relating to chewing and swallowing food. This symptom may become worse as the disease progresses and thus result in dysphagia, a term used to define swallowing difficulties. Dysphagia can range anywhere from having trouble swallowing certain foods to being unable to swallow at all. Bringing food back up after swallowing—occasionally through the nose—as well as choking and coughing while eating, can also occur for those with dysphagia.

4. Difficulty breathing

Those with ALS may notice that they are having some trouble breathing. Eventually, this can progress into dyspnea—also known as an intense shortness of breath. Those with ALS will lose the ability to breath on their own and will therefore develop a ventilator dependency.

5. Difficulty walking

Due to weakening muscles—especially in the ankles, legs, or feet—some individuals with ALS may notice that they are having trouble walking, which could result in tripping and falling more often. A feeling of clumsiness may also be associated with ALS. While everyone can be clumsy from time to time, it’s likely worth keeping an eye on if you suspect that you or your loved one may have ALS.

6. Muscle atrophy

Muscle atrophy—defined as the decrease in size and wasting of muscle tissue—is a staple of ALS. As the body’s nerve cells degenerate—the ones that control the movement of muscles—muscle atrophy will occur progressively. While muscle atrophy can be caused by a number of ailments, including a lack of physical activity, it’s also associated heavily with ALS.