Originally published on 2/23/26

Grey’s Anatomy star Eric Dane passed away on February 19 at age 53 from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) disease—also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease—the symptoms of which can be easy to miss in its early stages. The beloved TV star and father of two had been living with ALS since his diagnosis in 2024. 

“With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS,” reads a statement shared with People magazine. “He spent his final days surrounded by dear friends, his devoted wife and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center of his world. Throughout his journey with ALS, Eric became a passionate advocate for awareness and research, determined to make a difference for others facing the same fight. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered always. Eric adored his fans and is forever grateful for the outpouring of love and support he’s received. The family has asked for privacy as they navigate this impossible time.”

Here we take a look at the actor’s ALS journey, the sneaky symptoms he initially dismissed and what others need to know about this disease.

The early ALS symptom Eric Dance missed 

In June 2025, Dane sat down with Diane Sawyer on Good Morning America to talk about one of his earliest ALS symptoms—one he initially dismissed as simple texting fatigue. 

“I started experiencing some weakness in my right hand, and I didn’t really think anything of it at the time,” the actor said. “I thought maybe I’d been texting too much and my hand was fatigued. But a few weeks later, I noticed that it had gotten a little worse, so I went and saw a hand specialist who sent me to another hand specialist. I went and saw a neurologist, and the neurologist sent me to another neurologist and said, ‘This is way above my pay grade.’”

Dane told People magazine earlier that year that he had been diagnosed with ALS. He was 52 at the time and had planned to continue working. 

“I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter,” Dane told the outlet in April 2025. “I feel fortunate that I am able to continue working and am looking forward to returning to the set of Euphoria next week. I kindly ask that you give my family and I privacy during this time.” 

Eric Dane’s ALS symptoms worsened over time 

Because ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease, Dane’s symptoms became more severe over the coming months. In his Good Morning America interview last year, he revealed, “I have one functioning arm. My dominant side. My left side is functioning, my right side has completely stopped working. It’s [my left side] going. I feel like maybe a couple more months, and I won’t have my left hand either. It’s sobering,” he continued. Dane added that, at the time, he could still walk.

The subtle ALS symptoms people overlook

Like Dane, many people with ALS have weakness in their hands and assume it’s just fatigue. But, those subtle shifts can actually be sneaky early symptoms of ALS, according to Susanne Gonzalez Gallardo, MD, a neurologist at Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital who specializes in neuromuscular medicine. To monitor it, she recommends “doing everyday activities such as going up and down the stairs, opening a jar or buttoning your shirt” and paying attention to anything that feels “off,” no matter how subtle.

“Some symptoms that you can make note of would be persistent or worsening painless weakness in your leg while going up the stairs or having one hand that becomes noticeably weaker than the other,” Dr. Gonzalez Gallardo says. 

Understanding your ALS risk

ALS is a rare disease that destroys nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, making it harder for people to walk, talk and move their bodies. There is no cure for ALS. It’s slightly more common in men and it is in women, though that changes though when it comes to a type known as bulbar-onset ALS, which affects speech and swallowing. 

“While ALS is generally more common in men, data shows women over the age of 70 may have a higher rate for bulbar ALS,” Dr. Gonzalez Gallardo explains. “Early voice changes may sound slightly hoarse, nasal or breathy. Words may blur together when tired. Some women notice they cough more often when drinking thin liquids or avoid certain foods because swallowing feels awkward or slow. Meals may take longer, or weight may drop unintentionally.” 

While some speculate that exposure to household or environmental toxins such as pesticides or heavy metals may lead to the disease, Dr. Gonzalez Gallardo says that no toxin has been found to definitively cause ALS at this point in time. 

“Toxins such as industrial cleaning supplies, pesticides, smoking and heavy metals have been linked to increased risk of ALS but require a broader understanding of ALS risk factors,” she continued. “Women can limit their risk by avoiding smoking and cigarette smoke exposure and using proper protective gear and ventilation when handling toxins.” 

ALS treatment options 

If you suspect you may be experiencing symptoms of ALS, Dr. Gonzalez Gallardo says that you can visit a neurologist or even do genetic testing, since ALS can be passed down through one’s genes. 

“It is important to offer genetic testing, as we now know that up to 15 percent of ALS has a genetic cause despite not having a known familial history,” she explains. “Genetic testing may be able to help guide treatment decisions or determine eligibility for genetic-based clinical trials. Genetic testing is a personal decision and should be accompanied with genetic counseling.” 

If you’ve been diagnosed with ALS, your doctors will work with you to help minimize your symptoms.

How to reduce your ALS risk

To help protect against ALS, “Women can support their nervous system by maintaining muscle strength, prioritizing sleep and managing cardiovascular risk factors,” says Dr.Gonzalez Gallardo, “Studies also link omega-3 fatty acid intake, physical activity and nonsmoking with reduced ALS risk.” 

Link to original: https://www.womansworld.com/wellness/eric-dane-early-als-symptoms-dont-dismiss-these-warning-signs