Huntington’s Disease FAQS Part- 1

1) What is Huntington's disease (HD)?

Huntington's disease (HD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that irrevocably damages specific brain cells. This damage leads to a decline in cognitive, emotional, and physical abilities. Unlike many other neurological diseases, HD is caused by a single, identified genetic mutation.

2) What causes Huntington's disease?

Huntington's disease is triggered by an abnormal, expanded version of the huntingtin protein. This abnormal protein forms clumps within brain cells, disrupting their function and eventually killing them. The areas of the brain most affected by HD control movement, cognition, and emotion.

3) Is Huntington's disease hereditary?

Yes, Huntington’s disease is an inherited condition. It is passed down through families in an autosomal dominant pattern. This means that if one parent carries the faulty gene, there’s a 50% chance of passing it on to each child, regardless of gender.

4) Can Huntington’s disease be prevented?

Currently, there is no way to prevent Huntington's disease. However, advances in genetic testing allow individuals to determine if they carry the HD gene before symptoms appear. This information can be crucial for family planning and personal decision-making.

5) Is there a cure for Huntington's disease?

Unfortunately, there is no cure for Huntington's disease at this time. While research is continually advancing, current treatments focus on managing symptoms and improving quality of life.

6) What are the early symptoms of HD?

Early symptoms of Huntington’s disease often manifest as subtle changes in mood, personality, and behaviour. Individuals may experience irritability, depression, anxiety, or apathy. They might also notice difficulty concentrating, memory problems, or sleep disturbances. Subtle motor symptoms, such as clumsiness or balance issues, can also appear in the early stages.

7) What are the physical symptoms of HD?

As Huntington’s disease progresses, physical symptoms become more pronounced. These include involuntary movements (chorea), which are rapid, jerky movements that can affect the face, arms, legs, and trunk. Other motor symptoms include slowed movements (bradykinesia), rigidity, and difficulty with coordination and balance.

8) What are the cognitive symptoms of HD?

Cognitive decline is a hallmark of Huntington's disease. Symptoms can range from mild memory lapses and difficulty concentrating to severe cognitive impairments affecting problem-solving, decision-making, and planning. As the disease progresses, individuals may experience challenges with language, understanding, and learning new information.

9) How long does it take for Huntington's disease to progress?

The progression of Huntington's disease varies significantly between individuals. While the average onset of symptoms is between the ages of 30 and 50, it can occur earlier or later. The rate of progression also varies, with some people experiencing rapid decline and others showing slower progression.

10) Are there different stages of Huntington's disease?

Yes, Huntington's disease is often divided into stages based on symptom severity. While there's no universally agreed-upon staging system, the general progression involves early stages with mild symptoms, intermediate stages with more pronounced symptoms, and advanced stages with severe impairments in motor, cognitive, and emotional functioning.