Huntington's Disease

Huntington disease is an incurable disease that causes loss of brain and spinal cells. The disease effects muscle mobility and psychological process. Although the Huntington gene exists in all human DNA, the mutation of the gene is what causes the disease. Genetics disposition increases a person’s probability in inheriting this disease. Signs of the disease become more evident  in the mid 30’s and late 40’s. The following resources provide significant scientific information about Huntington disease.

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms of the disease can imitate other disorders because it affects not just one part of the human body, but the brain, mental state, and physical coordination of the body. Identifying the signs early can help determine the severity of the disease. These websites can help identify signs and symptoms that are related to Huntington's.

Help Guide- Symptom guide on Huntington's disease.

Symptoms- The Mayo Clinic explains what symptoms to watch for and when to seek medical attention.

Signs and Symptoms- The University of California Medical Center provides early symptoms and progressive symptoms of Huntington's.

Genetics

Huntington is a genetic disease of the nervous system Research shows the familial connection of this gene and the role heredity plays in increasing the chances of having Huntington’s. Those who have parents caring the mutated Huntington protein have 50% chance of inheriting Huntington’s.

Genetics of Huntington's- Genetic counselor Debra Collins explores the genetics of the disease.

Genetics and Huntington's- Fact sheet on the role genetics plays in Huntington's.

Huntington's Chorea- Article about the evolution of genetics in this form of Huntington's.

Genetics and Genome- The role of heredity in Huntington's and the genetic testing involved.

Diagnosis

Since the disease mimics other diseases and disorders, early diagnosis is imperative to managing the disease in the early stages. Experienced neurologists can diagnosis Huntington's by using a collage of basic tests.The following resources explain the types of testing and medical history that is needed to confirm Huntington.

Genetic Testing- The types of genetic testing needed to confirm diagnosis.

A Guide for Families- An in depth guide about the genetic testing for a diagnosis of the disease.

Management

Although there is no cure for Huntington’s there have been medical advances in the management of the symptoms of disease. The use of several interdisciplinary medical providers can address the broad spectrum of physical and psychological needs of Huntington’s patients.

Medical Management- Explains the types of drugs that can be used to control the symptoms associated with Huntington's.

Psychiatric Management- An American Psychiatric Association article on managing psychiatric symptoms.

Management of Huntington's- Describes the Neuro-behavioral management options.

Supportive Care- 

States the benefits of using an interdisciplinary team to provide management care for the diverse needs of Huntington’s patients.

Prognosis and Treatment

The disease usually progresses in 10-30 years. The progressive disease has no cure but there are treatments than can lessen symptoms allowing for a more comfortable lifestyle. These treatments can help manage symptoms but cannot decrease to the rate the disease will impact the physical and mental state of the carrier.These resources can help you and loved ones prepare for what experiences lie ahead in coping with the disease.

Palliative Care- Focuses not only the prognosis of the disease, but the effect it has on loved ones.

Life Expectancy- Expert opinion on the life expectancy of a patient over 30 with Huntington's.

What is it Like- Interactive video on living with Huntington disease.

History

The first recognized case of Huntington’s appeared in the Renaissance period of the 16th Century by an alchemist known as Paracelsus. He termed the symptoms as Chorea. Later Dr. George Huntington identified the disease as an inherited disease in 1872. 

History of the Disease- Dennis Phillips explains the history behind the disease.

Brief History- Time line of Huntington disease.

Support Organization

Support is essential for those suffering from the disease as well as has for loved ones. The following research provides support through  Huntington community based forums and interdisciplinary support systems.

Living With Huntington's- Support for those living with the disease or those with loved ones who are suffering from Huntington's.

Huntington's Advocacy- Online support with an article database with treatment research.

Speech Support- The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association provides support for the neurological symptoms that effect speech and communication. 

With education family members can be a supportive link for Huntington’s sufferers. Adapting a healthy lifestyle can also be beneficial in improving how you feel. Huntington’s may be a debilitating disease, but with the advancements in research treatments are available for both the mental and physical symptoms that are associated with the disease.