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3. Muscle Cramps
Some people develop painful muscle cramps, particularly in the:
- Calves
- Hands
- Feet
These cramps may become more frequent as the disease progresses.
4. Difficulty Using the Hands
Simple tasks may become challenging.
Examples include:
- Buttoning clothing
- Turning keys
- Writing
- Opening jars
- Holding utensils
Many people first notice increasing clumsiness rather than obvious weakness.
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5. Foot Drop
Weakness affecting the muscles that lift the front of the foot can cause “foot drop.”
This may result in:
- Tripping more often
- Dragging one foot while walking
- Difficulty climbing curbs or stairs
6. Slurred Speech
When ALS begins in the muscles controlling speech (bulbar-onset ALS), early symptoms may include:
- Slurred speech
- Difficulty pronouncing words
- Changes in voice quality
- Speaking more slowly
7. Difficulty Swallowing
Some individuals experience:
- Choking while eating
- Coughing during meals
- Food sticking in the throat
- Difficulty swallowing liquids
Persistent swallowing problems should always be medically evaluated.
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