Huntington's disease is a disease that is characterized by the wasting away of certain nerve cells in the brain. According to information on Huntington's disease by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), Huntington's disease is a familial disease. The mutated gene can be passed on from parent to child. Each child of a parent that carries the Huntington's disease gene has a 50 percent chance of inheriting the gene.
Onset
Signs and symptoms of Huntington's disease may begin to develop in middle age, according to an article on Huntington's disease by the Mayo Clinic. Younger people with Huntington's disease may experience a progression in their symptoms more quickly and often with more severity. Children may also develop the disease, but this is rare.
Early-Stage Symptoms
Specific symptoms related to Huntington's disease can vary significantly from person to person. According to the NINDS, the progression of symptoms is usually divided into three stages. The early stage is characterized by subtle changes in coordination and outward signs of involuntary movement. Other symptoms include noticeable changes in personality, such as anger, irritability or depression. Problems with balance; involuntary facial movements, such as grimacing; and clumsiness are other early symptoms.
Later-Stage Symptoms
The middle stage may involve difficulty speaking and swallowing as well as diminished cognitive functioning. Increased sudden jerky or involuntary movements throughout the body may be present. Severe problems with balance and coordination become evident and make it harder to walk. Ordinary activities become harder to do and may require assistance. The late stage is when people with the disease become totally dependent on others for care and is characterized by a major decrease in motor skills and the ability to communicate.
Risk and Complications
The risk of developing Huntington's disease lies with the chances that your parents carry the mutated gene that causes the condition. Most parents are unaware that they even have the gene until they have children who develop the disease--usually in middle age. Complications of Huntington's disease typically occur as the normal functions of the body become more and more difficult. According to the Mayo Clinic, depression in people who have been diagnosed with Huntington's disease puts them at risk for suicide. Death generally occurs as a complication of the disease through a fall or an infection such as pneumonia.
Coping and Support
According to the Mayo Clinic, death typically occurs about 10 to 30 years after visible symptoms first begin to appear. This makes being able to cope with the disease extremely important. It is advised that you begin to draw up a will and take care of all legal matters while cognitive ability is still present. Arranging living assistance and emotional support from friends, family and professionals is also recommended.
