While people with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) experience progressive muscle weakness and paralysis, the tongue is often affected later in the disease.
This is because the tongue is controlled by cranial nerves, which are less susceptible to the degeneration that characterizes ALS.
However, as ALS progresses, the tongue may become weak, making it difficult to speak, swallow, and chew.
This can lead to speech impairments, choking, and malnutrition.
While ALS doesn't directly affect the tongue's ability to move in the early stages, it can significantly impact its function as the disease progresses.
