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"What are the common signs of bulbar onset in a father and how can it be managed?"
Bulbar onset ALS affects the brainstem, which controls functions such as speech, swallowing, and chewing, and accounts for approximately 25-30% of all ALS cases.
Early signs of bulbar onset ALS include difficulty with speaking or swallowing, changes in voice quality, and instances of choking on saliva.
One-third of people with bulbar onset ALS will develop uncontrollable episodes of laughing or crying, known as pseudobulbar affect (PBA).
Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, is a common symptom of bulbar onset ALS and can lead to malnutrition, dehydration, and respiratory complications.
Bulbar onset ALS has a faster disease progression and shorter survival rate compared to spinal onset ALS.
Riluzole, an FDA-approved medication, has been shown to slow down the progression of ALS, including bulbar onset ALS, by reducing the release of glutamate, a neurotransmitter that can be toxic to motor neurons.
Speech and swallowing therapy can help improve communication and reduce the risk of aspiration pneumonia in people with bulbar onset ALS.
ALS is considered a military service-connected condition, making veterans eligible for full coverage under their veteran benefits.
Insurance coverage for ALS treatment varies, but a 2014 case study found that insurance covered 85% of the 10-year cost of treatment.
ALS qualifies for SSDI, which provides a monthly disability income, and Medicaid, a joint state and federal program that provides healthcare coverage.
Medicare can cover up to 80% of the fees associated with ALS under both Part A and Part B plans.
People with bulbar onset ALS may experience excessive saliva in the mouth, regurgitation, and shortness of breath while eating due to impaired swallowing.
A gurgling sound in the voice after swallowing is a common symptom of bulbar onset ALS, caused by food or liquids entering the airway.
The corticobulbar area of the brainstem is responsible for controlling the muscles of the head, face, and neck, which are affected in bulbar onset ALS.
An important factor in managing bulbar onset ALS is maintaining adequate nutrition and hydration to prevent malnutrition and dehydration.
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