How to Recognize the Symptoms of Huntington's Disease

Huntington's disease is a rare, genetic disease that causes brain cells to degenerate and waste away. Passed on from one parent to an offspring, the disorder results in spasmodic, involuntary movement of the head, arms and legs (known as "chorea"). It can also cause difficulty balancing and trouble eating and swallowing. The cognitive and emotional manifestations of Huntington's disease include personality changes, anger, depression, confusion, memory loss and dementia. The disease usually develops slowly, but in young people the progression may be more rapid.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Notepad

Recognize Subtle Signs and Symptoms

1. Be alert for mood changes and emotional symptoms. People with Huntington's disease may express flashes of anger or irritability more often. Normal shifts in mood are to be expected in anyone, but keep a log of changes in temperament that seem more frequent or uncharacteristic of your loved one's personality. Write down when they occur and what, if anything, seems to trigger them.
2. Observe any new or increased difficulties in remembering, absorbing facts or making ordinary choices. Write down the specifics to share with your doctor, especially if these changes seem sudden or occur more often.
3. Watch for physical changes, such as unusual facial tics or grimacing. A person with Huntington's disease may also develop difficulty keeping her balance or walking. Recognize that sudden clumsiness, dropping things or having trouble grasping things may signal Huntington's-related coordination loss.
4. Listen for slurred words or other changes in speech patterns, such as uncertainty when speaking. This is especially relevant when there is no viable excuse for the slurring, such as exhaustion or intoxication.
5. Observe how your loved one turns his head. If he needs to turn his head to look at you and can't seem to adjust his gaze, this may be a symptom of Huntington's disease.
6. Pay careful attention to symptoms that point to difficulty swallowing. These may include reluctance to eat or drink, or coughing or choking while eating.

Tips & Warnings

• Huntington's disease most often affects middle-aged people, but in young people the disorder can mimic Parkinson's disease, with muscle tremors and rigidity.
• The symptoms of Huntington's disease may be mild at first, so it's important to recognize them early so you can seek medical advice and get treatment right away.
• Make a note if your loved one appears despondent or expresses unusual sadness. Depression can accompany Huntington's disease.

Who Can Help: