What is Motor Neuron Disease?
Motor Neuron Disease (MND) is the collective name for a group of illnesses that affect the nerve cells in the body. As MND progresses, the motor neurons become damaged and signals from the brain to the muscles are blocked, resulting in a progressive weakening and wasting of the muscles. There are many symptoms associated with MND including difficulties in feeding and gaining weight, impairment of speech and paralysis.
Around 120 patients are diagnosed with MND in Scotland each year, around 60 of whom live in the West of Scotland.
What does our service offer?
Patients living in Greater Glasgow and Clyde, as well as other parts of the West of Scotland, will typically be assessed and diagnosed at the Institute of Neurological Sciences at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital with follow up care either within a specialist clinic at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital or at the patient’s local district general hospital. A large team of healthcare professionals works together to provide care and support, along with the neurologist.
There is no cure for MND but symptoms can be managed and some people with an MND illness are able to conduct a fairly normal life for a number of years. This is dependent on the individual and type of MND condition.
Consultant Neurologists:
Dr George Gorrie
Dr Emanuela Molinari
MND Nurse Specialists:
Ms Suzanne Byrne
Ms Laura Cunningham
Ms Janice Hatrick