Motor neurone disease (MND) is a rare neurological condition that causes deterioration and loss of function of the motor system (the cells and nerves in the brain and spinal cord which control the muscles in our bodies). This results in weakness and wasting of the muscles.

MND is progressive and symptoms worsen over time. Sadly, MND severely reduces life expectancy and most people with MND die within five years of the onset of symptoms.

Currently there is no information available about what causes MND.

Various studies have been carried out around the world and the risk of developing MND does not appear to be affected by race, diet or lifestyle.

MND does not occur in epidemics, it is not infectious and it does not appear to be caused by any other disease. It is more common in men than women.

Most people experience the onset of symptoms after the age of 40 years and MND is most common in people aged between 50 and 70 years.

MND symptoms are progressive and worsen over time.

Symptoms initially experienced in distinct parts of the body will eventually spread to the rest of the body. MND does not usually cause cognitive problems or affect an individual’s intellect.

The main symptoms of MND are:

• muscle wasting (this is often first noticed in the muscles in one hand, or in one arm or leg)
• muscle weakness (it might be difficult to open bottles or jars, carry heavy objects, or climb stairs)
• fasciculations (involuntary contractions of part of a muscle, often felt as flickers of movement or small twitches just under the skin)
• speech problems
• swallowing problems and excessive saliva (drooling)
• cramps and muscle spasms (spasticity)

In the later stages of MND, the muscles weaken in the chest, back and neck and people experience difficulties with breathing.

If you would like to donate to this worthy cause:  https://www.mndaustralia.org.au/donate