Quick recap

Let’s review what you’ve learned. 

ALS weakens the muscles that we use to breathe, swallow, and cough. Some people living with ALS use a tracheostomy tube (trach) to help them breathe and keep their lungs clear.  

Most people living with ALS who use a trach have a ventilator connected to their trach for additional breathing support. This is called invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV). 

Using a trach and IMV comes with big changes to your daily life, so it’s important to understand the benefits and downsides.

Finally, remember that it’s always your choice whether to get a trach and use IMV. If you start using IMV, you can choose to stop later. Your ALS care team can help you think through your options and make a treatment plan that reflects what’s important to you. 

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