Huntington's Disease

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Huntington's Disease

Huntington's Disease (pronounced: hun-ting-tunz dih-zeez) is a neurodegenerative disorder that results in the death of brain cells. The earliest symptoms are often subtle problems with mood or mental abilities. A general lack of coordination and an unsteady gait often follow. As the disease advances, uncoordinated, jerky body movements become more apparent.

Etymology

The disease is named after George Huntington, an American physician who first described the condition in 1872. The term "Huntington's Disease" was adopted in his honor.

Symptoms

Huntington's Disease affects the Central Nervous System, with symptoms most commonly becoming noticeable between the ages of 30 and 50. The disease may affect individuals differently, but the most common symptoms include:

  • Cognitive decline: This includes problems with memory, judgment, and thinking.
  • Motor control issues: These include difficulty walking, speaking, and swallowing.
  • Psychiatric disorders: These can range from depression and anxiety to more severe forms of psychosis.

Causes

Huntington's Disease is caused by an inherited defect in a single gene. It is an autosomal dominant disorder, which means that a person needs only one copy of the defective gene to develop the disorder.

Treatment

While there is currently no cure for Huntington's Disease, treatment can help manage symptoms. Medications are available to help manage the movement disorders and psychiatric conditions associated with the disease. Physical therapy can also help manage movement problems.

Related Terms

See Also

External links

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