After news that Eric Dane has been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as ALS or Lou Gehrig’s Disease, many may be wondering what the disease is and how it affects the body.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a serious and usually fatal neurodegenerative disorder in which motor neurons deteriorate and die. The disease causes a loss of movement that eventually affects a patient's ability to speak, eat, and breathe.

Most people live for around two to five years after diagnosis with some even reaching a decade or more

The MND Association states that ALS is the most prevalent type of Motor Neurone Disease, with initial symptoms including tripping or dropping objects as early indicators of muscle weakness and deterioration. The condition can also trigger muscle cramps and stiffness.