Additionally, tracking measurements like muscle strength, lung function, and weight can assist in evaluating disease progression and the effectiveness of treatments or interventions. Monitoring medications, including muscle relaxants and therapies for symptom management, can ensure adherence to the prescribed treatment plan. Regularly recording lab test results, such as electromyography (EMG) or blood work, can help healthcare providers assess ALS progression and provide appropriate care.
Sample health journal entries that can be entered into Goopatient*:
Date: July 28, 2023
To address the #swallowing_difficulty, I will opt for softer and easier-to-swallow foods during meals. I also plan to practice speech exercises recommended by my speech therapist to maintain communication abilities.
To address the #swallowing_difficulty, I will opt for softer and easier-to-swallow foods during meals. I also plan to practice speech exercises recommended by my speech therapist to maintain communication abilities.
Today, I experienced increased #muscle_weakness in my arms and legs, and I noticed slight difficulty in swallowing during mealtime. Speech slurring was also more pronounced than usual.
I suspect that physical exertion during #physical_therapy yesterday might have contributed to the increased muscle weakness today. Additionally, feeling stressed about an upcoming appointment might have affected my #speech.
I took my prescribed muscle relaxant medication #Relax-DS 50mg this morning to manage muscle spasticity.
My spouse assisted me in measuring my #lung_capacity using a spirometer, and the readings indicated a slight decrease compared to my last measurement.
I had a scheduled visit with my neurologist #Dr.Brown today, and we discussed the progression of my symptoms and adjustments to my treatment plan.
You can also add to your health journal encourading news about advances in the als management. Here are some of them:
Sam Altman launches startup Merge Labs to compete with Neuralink.
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, together with renowned biomolecular engineer Mikhail Shapiro, in 2025 launched the startup Merge Labs, which will focus on developing non-invasive ways to interact with the brain using ultrasound and gene therapy. Shapiro has his own lab at Caltech, known for its work in non-invasive neuroimaging and neurocontrol methods, which use ultrasound rather than surgical implants to interact with the brain. This approach differs from Elon Musk's Neuralink strategy, which relies on implanting electrodes into the brain. Gene therapy allows cells to be "marked" so they can be visualized and controlled using ultrasound. Altman has long expressed skepticism about Neuralink implants. Back in August, he stated, "I definitely wouldn't stitch something to my brain," adding that he dreams of a future where all you have to do is think, and ChatGPT will respond.