Is MND a neurological disorder?

Motor neurone disease (MND) is a rare neurological condition that causes the degeneration (deterioration and loss of function) of the motor system (the cells and nerves in the brain and spinal cord which control the muscles in our bodies).

What are the 4 types of MND?

The disease can be classified into four main types depending on the pattern of motor neurone involvement and the part of the body where the symptoms begin.

• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
• Progressive bulbar palsy (PBP)
• Progressive muscular atrophy (PMA)
• Primary lateral sclerosis (PLS)

What are the final stages of MND?

How can MND affect people towards the end of life?

• Respiratory problems.
• Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)
• Saliva problems.
• Dysarthria.
• Pain.
• Cognitive change.
• Multidisciplinary team working.

What do the early signs of motor neurone disease MND include?

Early symptoms can include:

• weakness in your ankle or leg – you might trip, or find it harder to climb stairs.
• slurred speech, which may develop into difficulty swallowing some foods.
• a weak grip – you might drop things, or find it hard to open jars or do up buttons.
• muscle cramps and twitches.

At what age is MND usually diagnosed?

The onset of symptoms varies but most commonly the disease is first recognized between 20 and 40 years of age. Generally, the disease progresses very slowly. Early symptoms may include tremor of outstretched hands, muscle cramps during physical activity, and muscle twitches.

Do you shake with motor neurone disease?

Rhythmic involuntary oscillations of the hands during action, resembling tremor, can occur in MND, but their pathophysiology has not yet been investigated. Methods: A total of 120 consecutive patients with MND were screened for tremor. Twelve patients with action tremor and no other movement disorders were found.

Can MND stop progressing?

There’s no cure for motor neurone disease, but treatment can help relieve symptoms and help to slow down the condition’s progression.

What does MND Association do for motor neurone disease?

The MND Association is a charity focused on improving access to care, research and campaigning for people affected by motor neurone disease.

What does MND stand for in medical terms?

Motor neurone disease (MND) is a progressive and ultimately fatal disease that results in degeneration of the motor neurones, or nerves, in the brain and spinal cord. GPs and others in the primary care team can make a great difference to the quality of life of people with MND, with timely care, support and symptom management.

Is there a differential diagnosis of motor neuron disease?

Differential diagnosis can be challenging due to the number of overlapping symptoms, shared between several motor neuron diseases.

Why do you need a neurologist for MND?

The importance of timely diagnosis. Rapid and accurate diagnosis, performed by a medical doctor experienced in MND care, usually a neurologist, is crucial in ensuring the needs of people living with MND are met from the earliest possible stage. Quality of life for people with MND may be improved by: accurate recognition of the condition.