Here are some of the key effects of motor neuron disease:
- Loss of muscle function and mobility as motor neurons degenerate, leading to weakness, stiffness, and paralysis in limbs. This affects activities like walking, running, writing, and use of hands.
- Difficulty speaking, swallowing, and breathing as motor neurons to muscles in the face, throat, and diaphragm are impacted. This can result in slurred speech and respiratory failure.
- No damage to senses like sight, hearing, taste, or smell, as motor neurons only affect voluntary muscle movement. Cognitive functions are also usually spared.
- Rapid progression - symptoms worsen over time from initial diagnosis. Life expectancy is typically 2-