ALS, which stands for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, is a disease in which the brain is gradually unable to communicate with muscles. The muscles will break down over time, otherwise known as muscle atrophy. The cause is not well known, but it seems to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

There are two main types, familial and sporadic. Familial means it can be inherited and sporadic refers to all other cases where it is unknown. It is not contagious, and there is no known cure. There are only supportive therapies. To learn more, visit the ALS Association.