Lou Gehrig's Disease, also known as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), is a progressive neurological condition that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. It leads to the degeneration of motor neurons, which are responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movements. As these neurons die, individuals experience muscle weakness, difficulty speaking, and challenges with swallowing and breathing.
The disease is named after Lou Gehrig, a famous American baseball player who was diagnosed with ALS in 1939. While the exact cause of ALS is still unknown, it typically occurs in adults and can lead to severe disability. There is currently no cure, but treatments are available to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.