Huntington’s Disease (HD)
Huntington's disease (HD) is a rare inherited condition that causes involuntary movements, severe emotional disturbances, and a decline in mental (cognitive) functions.
Early signs of Huntington's vary greatly, but may include:
- Uncontrolled movements in the fingers, feet, face, or trunk, which may intensify when the person is anxious
- Changes in judgment and memory, such as difficulty learning new things, remembering facts, answering a question, or making a decision
- Mood swings
- Increased irritability, apathy, passivity, depression, or anger
- Trouble driving
- Changes in handwriting
Also, as HD progresses, stumbling or lack of coordination may be noticed, and intellectual tasks become increasingly difficult.
Diagnosing and Treating HD
The most common form of Huntington's disease often begins in middle age, but there are also late-onset and early-onset forms. In general, the earlier in life symptoms appear, the more rapidly the disease progresses.
The gene for Huntington's disease has been discovered, making it possible to confirm a diagnosis of HD with a genetic test. There is currently no treatment that stops or reverses the course of HD, so treatment for the disease is aimed at managing movement and emotional problems.
Maintaining as much physical activity as possible can help people with HD feel better physically and mentally.
HD may cause swallowing problems that make it difficult to eat or drink, so it's important to pay close attention to nutritional needs and fluid intake.
This content is brought by Staying Sharp, a partnership between NRTA: AARP's Educator Community and the Dana Alliance for Brain Initiatives.
