ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. These nerve cells, called motor neurons, control voluntary muscle movements. As ALS advances, motor neurons degenerate and die, leading to muscle weakness, twitching, and eventually complete loss of muscle control. This results in paralysis and, ultimately, affects the ability to speak, eat, move, and breathe. While the exact cause is unknown, ALS typically occurs in adults and has no known cure. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life.