What is Motor Neurone Disease (MND)

Motor Neurone Disease or MND is a progressive neurological disease that damages nerve cells controlling voluntary muscles, causing muscle weakness and paralysis.

When someone has MND the Motor Neurones, the nerves in their brain and spinal cord that carry messages to their muscles, become damaged and die.

Early signs of MND might include mild weakness, clumsiness, tripping over or slurred speech, but each individual experiences MND in a unique way. This makes MND difficult to diagnose and currently there are no definitive tests. It is usually identified by ruling out other conditions. Seeing how symptoms progress also helps, but it can take time before a diagnosis is confirmed.

With MND, symptoms get worse over time; gripping, walking, speaking, and swallowing can become increasingly difficult. Breathing can also be affected. Although the illness cannot be reversed, support can help ease symptoms. Some people with MND also experience changes to thinking and behaviour. Usually this is mild and does not affect day to day life. In a small number of cases this can be more severe, and additional support may be needed. It is not clear what causes motor neurones to stop working properly but understanding of MND is constantly advancing. A small number of cases are linked to a family history, but there is more that we need to know. Research is ongoing.

Currently there is no cure, and MND is life-shortening. However, specialist support to manage symptoms, and an assessment of social care needs can help people find services and support and prolong independence. This can help to achieve the best possible quality of life at each stage of the illness.