I was just wondering if anyone knew if als can run in your family???my grandfather died of als when I was 4 years old..and I was told by a family member that it could run in your family..I am not sure of the symtems of this..I have been experiencing problems in my ankles pretty much steady and have alot of pain and burning and just was wondering if it is something I should check into..it scares me to think that it can run in your family, can anyone help me?

sileshadow~

I believe it does run in the family, but I read the majority of the people with ALS have no family history.

Just like breast cancer, it can run in the family but most that develop breast cancer don't have a family history.

I don't think your symptoms sound like ALS. I've never heard anyone talk about "burning" This is a sensory issue that's not ALS provoked. ALS patients feel profound weakness, and twitching.

No, I don't have ALS or know anyone "personally". I thought I had it back in Dec 02. The neurologist's have put my mind at ease. I have a benign neurological condition. Over the past six months I've been reading up on ALS. At the height of my fears, I've even lurked on ALS forums.

Get an appt at a neurologist that specializes in ALS. I had the muscle/nerve test called an emg to help ease my fears. My neurologist is a movement disorder specialist that worked in an ALS clinic for 3 years, in a TX teaching hospital.

Remember even if the doc doesn't think you have ALS, which you probably don't. The emg can detect, nerve problems anywhere in your body. You might have simple compressed nerves in your back causing your problems.

Renee

Bless your grandfather.

[This message has been edited by reneeintx (edited 06-19-2003).]