Motor Neurone Disease (MND) is the name given to a group of related diseases affecting the motor neurones in the brain and spinal chord. It is important to realise, however, that the effects of MND vary from one person to another, as indeed does the rate of progression.
- Motor neurones are those cells that control muscles and their degeneration leads to weakness and wasting of muscles. You may find this initially affects your arms or legs.
- Some people may develop a weakness in the muscles around the throat causing problems with speech and difficulties with chewing or swallowing. The mind and senses though, are not affected.
- Family and friends, too, can be affected when someone close to them has been diagnosed and need advice and support in helping them to care for someone living with MND.
For more in-depth information on Motor Neurone Disease, care services and research please visit www.mndassociation.org