Kevin Talbot – författare

Motor neuron disease (MND) is a common but devastating disability that has a profound impact on people's lives. This book provides an easily-accessible guide to the disease for patients with motor neuron disease and their carers. The authors have organised it around a series of the commonest questions asked in their clinic, emphasising the variation in the course of MND and the individual nature of the patient journey through the disease. After an initial description of the symptoms for MND and how neurologists make the diagnosis the authors describe what is known about the causes and how scientists are trying to understand the disease. The book also looks at how a team of specialists can provide support and symptom control for the patient.

There are around 5000 patients in the UK living with Motor Neuron Disease (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), and many others shouldering the burden of their care. This fatal neurodegenerative disease leads to progressive muscle weakness and wasting, and there is currently no effective treatment. Managing these patients from their initial presentation, through confirmation of diagnosis and throughout their disease journey is challenging for all healthcare professionals. It requires a multi-disciplinary approach involving neurologists, general practitioners, palliative care physicians, specialist nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists and speech and language therapists. Each member of the team has different priorities to effectively manage the myriad of symptoms and other practical difficulties, both emotional and financial, that the MND patient may experience. This book is a comprehensive guide to the complexities of care for the patient with Motor Neurone Disease, written by experienced members of a large care centre. It has been specifically written and designed to provide comprehensive, easily accessible advice for all healthcare professionals involved in the care of patients with this challenging condition, including diagnostic, prognostic, physical, emotional, and practical challenges. The entire care pathway from presentation to diagnosis to symptom management and end of life issues is addressed in detail, but in a highly structured, easily accessible format, that allows the reader to find practical answers rapidly. This book is an invaluable resource for neurologists (including those in training), neurology wards and specialist nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, respiratory and gastroenterology departments providing NIV or PEG support, palliative care teams and all healthcare professionals with an interest in MND patients.