What symptom is associated with respiratory failure in ALS patients?

In patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), respiratory failure is a significant concern due to the progressive degeneration of motor neurons that control the muscles involved in breathing. As the disease progresses, patients experience an increase in muscle weakness, which directly affects their respiratory muscles leading to respiratory insufficiency. The hallmark of ALS is indeed the progressive muscle weakness that can extend to the diaphragm and intercostal muscles, impairing the ability to breathe effectively.

This muscle weakness can eventually lead to respiratory failure, as the affected muscles become unable to generate adequate ventilation. Thus, recognizing that respiratory failure associated with ALS is closely tied to the progressive muscle weakness is essential for understanding the progression of the disease and planning appropriate care for these patients.