What is Huntington’s Disease?
Huntington’s disease (HD) is a neurodegenerative genetic disorder that progressively causes the breakdown of nerve cells (neurons) in the brain, leading to deterioration in physical, cognitive, and emotional abilities. The disease typically begins between the ages of 30 and 50 and affects roughly 40,000 people in the United States, with another 200,000 at risk of developing the condition. Despite extensive research, there is currently no cure for HD, making it a significant public health challenge.
What causes HD?
HD is caused by a mutation in the huntingtin gene (HTT), which involves an expansion of the CAG trinucleotide repeat. This mutation leads to the production of an abnormal version of the huntingtin protein, which gradually damages brain cells, particularly in the striatum – a brain area critical for movement, mood, and behavior control. The genetic nature of HD means that every child of an affected parent has a 50% change of inheriting the disease.
Symptoms and Stages of Huntington’s Disease
A range of symptoms are presented with HD, they’re often categorized into motor, cognitive, and psychiatric domains:
- Motor Symptoms: These include involuntary movements, such as chorea (jerky, random movements), difficulty with coordination and swallowing, slurred speech, and changes in gait.
- Cognitive Symptoms: Affected individuals may experience problems with concentration and reasoning abilities, memory impairments, and difficulties with attention.
- Psychiatric Symptoms: Mood disorders, such as depression, irritability, and anxiety are common. In some cases, individuals may experience obsessive-compulsive behaviors or, in severe cases, psychosis.
The progression of symptoms typically follows three stages:
- Early Stage: Subtle changes in personality, cognition, and physical skills may appear, often mistakes for other conditions.
- Middle Stage: More pronounced motor symptoms, such as chorea and problems with walking, become apparent. Cognitive decline and psychiatric issues may also worsen.
- Late Stage: Patients experience severe movement disorders, significant cognitive impairment, and full dependence on caregivers for daily activities.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing HD often involves a combination of neurological exams, family history assessments, and genetic testing. Brain imaging may also be used to observe structural changes associated with the disease’s progression. While there is no cure, treatments can help manage symptoms. Medications are commonly prescribed to control chorea, depression, anxiety, and other psychiatric symptoms.
Living with Huntington’s Disease
Living with HD requires a comprehensive care approach, involving neurologists, psychiatrists, physical therapists, and support groups. Given its progressive nature, HD significantly impacts daily living, eventually requiring full-time care.
ArchCare’s Center for Neurodegenerative Disease
ArchCare provides specialized care for individuals with HD through dedicated units at Ferncliff Nursing Home & Rehabilitation Center in Rhinebeck, NY and Terence Cardinal Cooke Health Care Center in Manhattan, NY. As one of the nation’s leading care providers for this complex disorder, ArchCare offers a comprehensive and compassionate approach tailored to the unique needs of HD patients.
Both facilities feature advanced technology and environments designed for the safety and comfort of residents with HD. The interdisciplinary care team include specialists in internal medicine, neurology, psychiatry, and more, all trained to address the diverse challenges presented by HD. This holistic approach aims to enhance the quality of life for residents, addressing their physical, emotional, and social needs. ArchCare also offers emotional support and resources for families, recognizing the broader impact of the disease (ArchCare Huntington’s Disease Care).
To learn more about the Huntington’s Disease care services at ArchCare or arrange a visit, please call 855-951-2273 (CARE) or fill out our contact us form.
Additonal Resources
- Huntington’s Disease Society of America website
- Overview of Huntington’s Disease on HDSA
- Huntington’s Disease page on Wikipedia
- Huntington’s Disease page on National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
- ArchCare’s Huntington’s Disease Care announcement on Catholic Health World