Huntington’s disease (HD) is a rare, inherited condition that causes the progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain. This degeneration impacts movement, thinking abilities and mental health. Symptoms typically develop in a person’s 30s or 40s and worsen over time, leading to significant physical and cognitive decline.
There is no cure for Huntington’s disease, but treatment can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Symptoms of Huntington’s Disease
Huntington’s disease affects movement, cognition and mental health. Symptoms may include:
- Involuntary movements
Jerking or writhing motions, muscle rigidity or slow eye movement. - Difficulty with coordination
Impaired balance, posture and difficulty swallowing or speaking. - Cognitive impairment
Trouble organizing tasks, slow thought processing, difficulty learning new information and lack of impulse control. - Mental health changes
Irritability, depression, fatigue, social withdrawal and in severe cases, suicidal thoughts.
Symptoms worsen as the disease progresses, gradually reducing a person’s ability to perform daily activities.
What causes Huntington’s Disease?
Huntington’s disease is caused by a genetic mutation in a single gene. It is an autosomal dominant disorder, meaning a person needs only one copy of the mutated gene to develop the condition. Each child of an affected parent has a 50% chance of inheriting the disease.
Who is at risk for Huntington’s Disease?
Huntington’s disease affects individuals of all ethnic backgrounds. While symptoms usually appear in adulthood, a juvenile form of the disease can develop in children and teenagers. Once symptoms begin, the disease progresses over time, impacting functional abilities and overall health.
How is Huntington’s Disease diagnosed?
Diagnosis is based on medical history, symptoms and diagnostic tests, including:
- Genetic testing
A blood test confirms the presence of the Huntington’s gene mutation. - Neurological exams
Doctors assess reflexes, coordination, balance and cognitive function. - Imaging tests
Brain scans such as MRIs or CTs may be used to evaluate structural changes.
How is Huntington’s Disease treated?
There is no cure for Huntington’s disease, but treatment can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Treatment options may include:
- Medications: Certain drugs help control involuntary movements, mood disorders and psychiatric symptoms.
- Physical and occupational therapy: Therapy helps maintain mobility and function for as long as possible.
- Lifestyle modifications: Proper nutrition, regular exercise and mental health support can improve well-being.
Choose NGPG for Huntington’s Disease Care
NGPG Neurology offers a collaborative approach to complex conditions like Huntington’s Disease, with expert care from board-certified neurologists, neurosurgeons, neurointerventional surgeons and neuropsychiatrists. Our specialists provide up-to-date treatments at two outpatient Neurology office locations. For advanced imaging and surgical needs, we partner with Northeast Georgia Medical Center, ensuring patients have access to all the services of a leading hospital alongside our excellent outpatient care.