Huntington's disease is a chronic, progressive brain disease that affects approximately two to 10 in every 100,000 people within the United States, according to medical experts at the Baylor College of Medicine. The risks of Huntington's disease can be devastating to both patients and loved ones. Anyone affected by this condition should discuss the risks associated with Huntington's disease with a medical professional.
Behavioral or Personality Changes
Brain degradation resulting from Huntington's disease can increase a person's risk of developing personality or behavioral changes. Consequently, friends or family members of a patient with this disease may notice that the affected person begins to act oddly or unusually. People with this disease can exhibit severe mood swings or may become abnormally depressed, apathetic or angry, report health experts at the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, a division of the National Institutes of Health.
These personality changes can have a significant impact on a patient's familial, social or work relationships. Patients who develop sudden or significant mood changes should be evaluated by a doctor, as this risk of Huntington's disease can be a sign of alternate medical problems.
Cognitive Decline
Huntington's disease causes the progressive decline of normal brain function. As a result, people are at an increased risk of developing memory and cognitive deficits as effects of Huntington's disease. People with this disease can experience memory loss or may have difficulty concentrating or making decisions, according to BCM medical professionals. These risks of Huntington's disease can make it difficult for affected patients to care for themselves normally.
Decreased Motor Control and Coordination
Poor or decreased motor control and coordination are significant risks associated with Huntington's disease. People with this disease are at risk of experiencing unusual muscle stiffness or involuntary body movements that affect their ability to move about normally, explains the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. Certain people may have difficulty standing or walking and can develop slurred or incomprehensible speech patterns.
These risks of Huntington's disease can negatively impact a person's ability to perform certain daily activities, such as eating or driving, warn medical professionals with the Cleveland Clinic. People who exhibit sudden or persistent motor coordination problems should consult a physician for further evaluation and care.
