Life changes after an ALS diagnosis. There are decisions to make, symptoms to manage, treatment options to evaluate, and adjustments to almost every detail of your daily routine. It’s a lot to take in.
We’re here to help you navigate those changes. From initial diagnosis to end-of-life plans, we have information and resources to guide you through every aspect of your ALS journey.
ALS Basics
Understanding ALS – Learn the basics of ALS, including what “amyotrophic lateral sclerosis” really means and who is at risk of developing the disease.
ALS Symptoms – Learn the early signs and symptoms that could indicate someone has the disease.
Stages of ALS – See how the disease progresses, from the initial stages to the final steps.
ALS Causes – What we know so far about the causes of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
Lou Gehrig and the History of ALS – How a famous baseball player brought awareness to an illness that it still sometimes called “Lou Gehrig’s Disease.”
ALS Diagnosis
Newly Diagnosed – What to do if you’ve recently been diagnosed with ALS.
Second Opinions – Should you get a second opinion? If so, how do you go about getting one?
How to Share Your Diagnosis – Tips on when you should tell people, what you should tell them, and how to share the news with your children or parents.
What Do I Do Now? – The next steps regarding insurance, employment, finances, and legal documents.
Living With ALS
Therapies & Care – A look at the different types of therapy services and medications that can be helpful in managing ALS symptoms and improving your quality of life.
Nutrition – How to maintain proper nutrition as eating and swallowing become more difficult.
Breathing Issues – Techniques and equipment to help you get the air you need as ALS weakens the muscles that control breathing.
Speech & Swallowing – A variety of tips for clearer speaking, better listening, and easier swallowing.
Improving Mobility – Therapies, exercise, equipment, and home improvements to help ALS patients get around more easily.
Anxiety & Depression – The signs and symptoms of depression, and how you can get the help you need.
Changes in Thinking & Emotional Lability – How ALS can change your thinking, behavior, and emotional patterns.
Assistive Equipment & Technology – A variety of technologies and devices can help ALS patients manage their symptoms and maintain a better quality of life.
Living Setting – Home care, assisted living, nursing homes, adult foster care, and other options for different living settings.
Daily Living Activities – ALS symptoms usually necessitate changes to your everyday activities. Learn how you can adjust your daily living activities and create a new normal.
Leisure Activities – How to enjoy your favorite leisure activities despite the challenges of ALS.
Caring for Someone With ALS
Caregivers – Help for those who tend to the needs of a loved one with ALS.
Resources for Caregivers – Where caregivers can find support, information, and assistance.
Practicing Self-Care – How to care for yourself as you care for someone else.
From One Caregiver to Another – An ALS caregiver shares her story.
Resources
Medicare – How to navigate the Medicare system.
Taxes – How to manage your tax obligations and minimize your financial burden.
ALS Association Services & Publications – A list of available services provided by the ALS Association, as well as free in-depth publications and periodicals that provide detailed information about the disease.
Clinics & Centers – A list of ALS Association Certified Treatment Centers and ALS clinics in Texas.
Support Groups – A list of local support groups for ALS patients, caregivers, and loved ones.
Register With ALS Texas – Connect with us so we can connect you with the local resources and services you need.
ALS Glossary – A list of all the vocabulary terms and definitions you need to understand the world of ALS.
End of Life Plans
Advance Directives – Learn what advance directives are and why you might consider creating one.
Hospice Care – Information on hospice care options.
Have questions? Feel free to contact us at ALS Texas.