Symptoms

MND Care Centre Website

Symptoms

Many people feel that because MND cannot be cured there is nothing that can be done to help. This is not the case. Management is aimed at identifying problems early and working as a team (patient, carers, family & professionals) to manage symptoms and maximise your quality of life

Below are some of the common symptoms someone living with motor neurone disease may experience. If you experience any of these symptoms it may be useful to discuss these with other appropriate professionals.

Muscle wasting: This may be noted in an arm or leg or in a number of muscles at the same time. The area may look thinner and as if weight has been lost.

Muscle weakness: This is often happens when the muscle is wasted however weakness can occur without wasting. Everyday tasks may become more difficult as a result of muscle weakness.

Spasticity or stiffness: Stiffness can occur in any muscle and may restrict mobility. Cramp is common, but most people with cramp don't have MND.

Fasciculations or muscle twitching: This happens because the nerve supply to the muscle is damaged. These twitches can occur in one area or in a number of areas at the same time. These flickering movements do not cause any harm and they are not painful. They may settle with time.

The physiotherapist and occupational therapist can help manage these symptoms. They can treat the muscle stiffness, improve balance and advise on equipment and adaptations which may help you get around more safely and with less fatigue.

Changes in speech: The volume of speech may become affected and you may find you speak more quietly. Sometimes people find their speech sounds hoarse or it may become difficult to speak clearly for long periods and the voice may become slurred.

The speech therapist can help with changes in speech. Tips can be given on how to manage the difficulty you may be experiencing. Some people learn to use an artificial voice generated by a machine they control.

Difficulty swallowing: Some people find that swallowing becomes more difficult. Chewing and eating may be tiring and mealtimes may take longer. If you are not eating enough, you may notice loss of weight. It is also important to maintain your normal fluid intake. Taste is not affected.

The speech therapist can make an assessment of your ability to swallow and provide information about how the changes can be managed. This may include modifying the texture or temperature of your food and drinks or using tips and ideas on positioning when you eat. The dietitian can also help by giving you hints and tips on how to get the best nutrition from the food you eat and how to manage any changes in your weight.

Excessive saliva: Sometimes an increase in saliva is noted. This may be thin and watery or may become a little thicker.

The specialist nurse can advise on how to manage this. This may involve using simple strategies or medications.

Changes in breathing: People with MND don't usually feel breathless but their breathing muscles may become progressively weak.

The respiratory physiotherapist, respiratory specialist nurse and MND specialist nurse will monitor this and can help to manage this.