you develop **progressive and unexplained** symptoms such as:
* Increasing weakness in one arm or leg
* Repeated unexplained falls
* Persistent hand clumsiness
* Muscle wasting
* Twitching associated with weakness
* Progressive slurred speech
* Increasing difficulty swallowing
A neurologist may be needed if the symptoms suggest a motor-neuron problem.
## When Is It an Emergency?
ALS usually develops progressively rather than suddenly.
Seek emergency medical help if symptoms appear abruptly, particularly:
* Sudden weakness on one side
* Sudden facial drooping
* Sudden speech difficulty
* Sudden severe breathing problems
* Sudden inability to swallow
Those symptoms may indicate a stroke or another acute medical emergency rather than ALS.
## Can ALS Be Treated?
There is currently no cure for ALS, but treatment can help slow disease progression in some people, manage symptoms, and preserve function and quality of life.
Care may involve a multidisciplinary team including:
* Neurologists
* Physical therapists
* Occupational therapists
* Speech and swallowing specialists
* Respiratory specialists
* Nutrition professionals
Certain
