Patrick Dempsey on Eric Dane’s Courage With ALS and What to Watch For
Actor Patrick Dempsey, 60, has recently spoken about the courage his Grey’s Anatomy co-star, Eric Dane, is showing while living with ALS.
E! Online reported that Dempsey has been staying in touch and that it’s very hard for Dane.
In further coverage by People Magazine, Dempsey said that Dane was using his platform in a positive way, despite dealing with the day-to-day reality of ALS.
Dempsey also spoke about how the disease’s progression has impacted what the actor can do professionally.
The importance of support systems when serious health issues hit is huge. Without people being there, whether it’s communication or hands-on support, the person dealing with it is more likely to struggle physically and mentally. That’s why stories about people checking in, especially celebrities, are so important.
What is ALS?
ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive disease that attacks the nerve cells that control voluntary muscles.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says those motor neurons break down over time, and the muscles get weaker, leading to paralysis.
People who suffer from this disease often find that movement is the first thing to go. This includes walking, lifting, and even simple things like gripping a mug.
Then other basics are affected, from speech to swallowing. Ultimately, breathing support may be needed.
Early signs people shouldn’t ignore
The Mayo Clinic states that ALS often starts with twitching and weakness in an arm or leg, trouble swallowing, or slurred speech.
However, symptoms can vary, and lots of common issues can look similar at first. Still, some patterns do show up often.
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke lists early symptoms that may include:
- Muscle twitching in an arm, leg, shoulder, or tongue
- Muscle cramps throughout the body
- Frequent tight or stiff muscles
- Muscle weakness that progressively worsens
- Speech changes that become more slurred or nasal-sounding
- Trouble chewing or swallowing
The ALS Association notes that early signs can also show up as gradual weakness and everyday trouble like tripping or difficulty walking.
When to contact a doctor
If you notice weakness that gets worse over weeks, not just days, especially if it’s more pronounced on one side, or if you keep dropping things, tripping, or struggling with speech or swallowing, reach out to your primary care doctor.
If your symptoms are affecting safety, contact them immediately, especially if you’ve choked on food or if your breathing changes while resting.
If you have sudden weakness, face drooping, severe trouble speaking, chest pain, or severe shortness of breath, treat it as an emergency and get immediate care. These can be signs of serious problems and need fast treatment.
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