MUSCLE weakness and stiff joints are common symptoms of motor neurone disease.
But the condition, which impacts the brain and nerves, has several other more unusual warning signs.
GettyMotor neurone disease (MND) affects 5,000 people in the UK[/caption]
One of the earliest to appear can be inappropriate emotional responses, or emotional lability.
This could be laughing when you feel sad, or crying unexpectedly at what might seem like the wrong moment.
In most cases, this symptom is temporary and eases over time, according to the MND Association.
But it can be distressing and cause anxiety, so it is advised to speak to a neurologist or wider health and social care team for guidance.
Other potential indicators of MND, which affects around 5,000 people in the UK, include a loss of muscle mass, or wasting, and movement and mobility problems.
Stiffness is also common, as are cramps, twitches and spasms.
And many people will experience speech and communication issues, breathlessness and changes in saliva.
MND is caused by a problem with cells in the brain and nerves called motor neurones.
These cells gradually stop working over time, but it’s not known why this happens, the NHS says.
Scottish rugby union player Doddie Weir famously suffered from the condition. He died aged 52.
Former rugby league star Rob Burrow also has MND.
The ex-Leeds Rhinos scrum-half was diagnosed two years after ending his playing career.
Last weekend, Burrow’s former teammate Kevin Sinfield carried him over the finish line at the Leeds marathon.
The pair have been raising money and awareness of MND since 2019.
What is motor neurone disease?
MOTOR neurone disease (MND) is a condition that impacts the brain and nerves, causing weakness over time.
It affects up to 5,000 adults in the UK at any one time. It is most common in people in their 60s and 70s.
Symptoms happen gradually and may not be obvious at first.
Early signs can include:
Weakness in your ankle or leg – you might trip, or find it harder to climb stairs
Slurred speech, which may develop into difficulty swallowing some foods
A weak grip – you might drop things, or find it hard to open jars or do up buttons
Muscle cramps, twitches and spasms
Weight loss – your arms or leg muscles may have become thinner over time
Stiff joints which limit range of movement
Difficulty stopping yourself from crying or laughing in inappropriate situations
Saliva problems, where it pools in the mouth or becomes sticky
Weakened coughing, which makes it harder to clear the throat
Breathing problems
There is no cure, and MND can significantly shorten life expectancy.
But treatments, which can reduce the impact of symptoms, include specialised clinics, physiotherapy, speech and language therapy, diet advice and medicines to reduce muscle stiffness.
Source: NHS and Motor Neurone Disease Association
PARob Burrow and Kevin Sinfield cross the finish line of the 2023 Leeds Marathon[/caption] Read More