Summary. 1  Some knowledge of basic first aid could mean the difference between life and death. 2  Consider doing a first aid course, so that you will be able to manage if someone is injured or becomes ill. 3  CPR is a life-saving skill that everyone should learn. 4  Keep a range of first aid kits handy at home, in the car and at work.
The loss of motor neurons leads to weakness and wasting (atrophy) of muscles used for activities such as crawling, walking, sitting up, and controlling head movement. In severe cases of spinal muscular atrophy, the muscles used for breathing and swallowing are affected.
ALS is a progressive, degenerative disease of the nervous system. It is one of a group of diseases, called motor neuron diseases (MND), in which specialized nerve cells that control movement of the voluntary muscles gradually cease functioning and die. Fasciculation is a sign of muscle irritability, as the normal action of the lower motor neuron on the muscle is impaired. 2  The sole involvement of lower motor neurons can be seen in a form of ALS called progressive muscular atrophy.