1. Be Aware of Your Symptoms
While feeling tired and weak can be a symptom of many health conditions, be aware of symptoms that continue. ALS affects the motor nerves in the body, so one of the first symptoms that may be experienced is muscle weakness. This may appear as dropping things, tripping, muscle cramping, or even be as simple as overall fatigue. If you experience any of these symptoms and they don't seem to be getting better, see a neurologist. The neurologist will perform a comprehensive physical exam, and, if the diagnosis of ALS is a possibility, also send you for several additional diagnostic tests. Extensive testing is essential since many conditions can show similar symptoms to ALS, especially in early stages.
2. Electromyogram (EMG)
An electromyogram measures the electrical activity of muscle cells in the body. In the most common form of this test, a needle is inserted into the muscle to be tested to measure the muscle's electrical activity. Contracting the muscle (eg. flexing your arm) stimulates the muscle and the electrical activity is recorded. Abnormal electrical activity, such as activity when the muscle is at rest, may be a sign of nerve damage. The results of an EMG are never used to diagnose ALS on their own. EMG results are used in conjunction with other test results in order to make an accurate diagnosis.
3. Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV) Test
A Nerve Conduction Velocity test is usually conducted at the same time as an EMG. Small electrodes are attached to both ends of a muscle in an arm or leg, and low levels of electrical stimulation are sent from one end of the nerve that affects the muscle to the other. The time it takes for that stimulation to be read at the other electrode is measured. A slow nerve impulse--the time it takes for the electrical stimulation to travel from the first electrode to the second--may indicate nerve damage. ALS may not be the only cause of abnormal test results so NCV tests are only part of the process in obtaining an accurate diagnosis.
4. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Test
A Magnetic Resonance Imaging test is not invasive or painful in any way. MRI's show detailed images of the brain and spinal cord. Since the symptoms of ALS can be similar to those of many other conditions, an MRI can be used to help rule out other potential causes of your symptoms.
5. Get a Second Opinion
Early symptoms of ALS can easily be confused with other conditions, such as the flu. In contrast, other conditions can be mistaken for early ALS. It is believed that 15% of people diagnosed with ALS have been misdiagnosed. Since ALS is a progressive, life-threatening disease, the diagnosis of ALS can be extremely traumatic. Getting a second opinion on such a diagnosis is essential, and any doctor will welcome your need for confirmation of such a life-altering and threatening condition.
