Symptoms of Huntington's Disease
Huntington's disease is a rare, inherited neurological disorder that causes nerve cells in the brain to break down over time. It affects a person's physical and mental abilities, and can lead to a decline in quality of life.
The onset of Huntington's disease is usually between the ages of 30 and 50, though it can affect people of any age. Symptoms can vary from person to person, but the most common include:
1. Movement Problems: Abnormal movements, such as jerking, twitching, and writhing, are often the first sign of Huntington's disease. These can worsen over time, leading to difficulty walking, maintaining balance, and controlling movements in general.
2. Cognitive Impairment: Huntington's disease can cause problems with memory, concentration, and problem-solving skills. People may also experience changes in their mood and behavior, such as apathy, depression, and disinhibition.
3. Speech and Swallowing Difficulties: As the disease progresses, people may experience difficulty speaking, swallowing, and forming words. They may also have trouble forming coherent thoughts.
4. Fatigue and Weight Loss: As the disease progresses, people may experience fatigue and weight loss due to the body's inability to absorb nutrients properly.
5. Psychiatric Symptoms: People with Huntington's disease may experience hallucinations, delusions, and other psychiatric symptoms, such as aggression and paranoia. They may also experience anxiety and depression.