Huntington's disease is a genetic, degenerative illness that affects the brain. It is as common as hemophilia, cystic fibrosis, or muscular dystrophy, although not as well-known. This neurological illness affects the cognitive, emotional, and motor aspects of the brain. There seems to be no gender preference, and the likelihood of inheriting it from an affected parent is 50%. All people who carry the gene will develop Huntington's disease. In 1993, through scientific research, a genetic test was developed to determine who carries the gene. If a child of someone with Huntington's does not inherit the gene, he or she cannot pass it on.
Symptoms of Huntington's Disease include:
Cognitive:
short-term memory, concentration, and organization problems
Emotional:
mood swings, depression, anxiety, irritability, aggression, and withdrawl/isolation
Motor Skills:
lack of coordination; problems with speech, swallowing, walking, and balance; fidgeting and involuntary movements
The majority of people who develop Huntington's disease do so between the ages of 30 and 50. These people have about a 10 - 20 year lifespan after onset. There is a smaller group of people who develop HD at a younger age. These people tend to progress quickly and their lifespans after diagnosis are generally shorter. There is currently no cure or even a method to slow the disease progression. Deaths from Huntington's are usually not from the disease itself, but from the effects of the condition: choking, infections, pneumonia, etc.
The future for Huntington's disease includes efforts to delay the onset, slow the progression, and hopefully someday cure it. The Huntington's Disease Society of America commits hundreds of thousands of dollars towards research, as well as providing supportive services for patients and their families. HDSA's "Centers of Excellence" are 21 strong and multiplying. They provide neurological, speech, occupational, and physical therapy. Genetic testing, counseling, and trained social workers are also available. These centers are funded by charitable affairs the HDSA sponsor, called "HDSA Celebration of Hope" events.
For more information, read Huntington's Behavioral Issues, Huntington's and Communicating, Huntington's and Home Safety, and Huntington's and Safe Bedding
For related neurological information, check out the Neurological ARTICLE INDEX and Blog.
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