Understanding ALS basics is the first step to unveil the stunning link between water proximity and Lou Gehrig’s disease. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a degenerative disorder affecting the nervous system. The cause of this disease is still partially understood, but exciting discoveries have pointed to a potential link between ALS and exposure to certain environmental factors, such as proximity to water. This article will delve into the basics of ALS and explore the intriguing linkage to water.
ALS Basics and Its Consequences
ALS is a specific type of motor neuron disease. It occurs when the nerve cells that control voluntary muscle movements, motor neurons, gradually break down. The problem mostly starts with slight muscle weakness or stiffness and later escalates into severe conditions where it becomes almost impossible to move and talk (The Mayo Clinic, 2021).
Some common ALS symptoms include:
Difficulty in performing everyday activities
Unexpectedly dropping objects
Persistent fatigue
Involuntary muscle contractions
Impaired speech
ALS patients often live for about three to five years after they begin showing symptoms. The disease’s progression can significantly vary, but ultimately, it leads to respiratory failure (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020).
Unveiling the Stunning Link: ALS and Water Proximity
Recent research indicates a potential association between ALS and exposure to toxins found in water. Scientists suggest that a harmful algae-based compound, BMAA (β-N-methylamino-L-alanine), might influence the development of ALS. BMAA is often present in waters with significant cyanobacteria growth, often spurred by environmental pollution.
This toxin can bioaccumulate in the food chain and potentially expose humans to harmful levels of the compound through food and water. Evidence suggests chronic dietary exposure to BMAA can trigger motor neuron damage leading to ALS (Cox, Davis, Mash, Metcalf, & Banack, 2016).
Additionally, studies have revealed increased ALS cases in people living near water bodies such as lakes and oceans, supporting the possible link between BMAA and ALS. However, more extensive research is needed to conclusively establish this connection.
Forward Strides in ALS Studies
While this connection between ALS and water proximity may concern many, it’s crucial to note that this is yet a small piece of a complex puzzle. The discovery means that we are slowly peeling the mystery layers around ALS and brings us a step closer to understanding the disease’s risk factors and potentially establishing better prevention measures.
In addition to environmental factors, genetic factors also play a significant role in ALS development. Approximately 5–10% of ALS cases are inherited, and numerous genes have been identified in relation to familial ALS, further complicating the complete understanding of this disease (The Mayo Clinic, 2021).
A Call to Act
This information can bring more questions than answers, but every piece of knowledge about ALS is a step towards a larger understanding that brings us closer to finding a cure. If you or someone you love has ALS and you think there may be a link to Real Water consumption, do not hesitate to reach out about your ALS and Real Water case here.
Stay informed and keep exploring more related content on ALS on our blog. Should you require immediate assistance, don’t hesitate to call us directly at 702-385-6000.
References
The Mayo Clinic, 2021
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020
Cox, P. A., Davis, D. A., Mash, D. C., Metcalf, J. S., & Banack, S. A, 2016