What is Huntington's Disease?
Huntington's disease, also known as HD, is a progressive hereditary disorder which affects the central nervous system. It used to be known as Huntington's chorea, and causes the abnormal death of neurons, or brain cells. The disease is characterized by the development of movement disorders and mental symptoms.
Because Huntington's disease is genetic, it is passed from parent to child. A child whose parent has HD has a 50/50 chance of inheriting the gene for the disease. Rarely, Huntington's can develop without a family history.
Symptoms of the disease usually do not develop until late in life, commonly in a person's 40's or 50's. However, some develop the disease at a younger age. If it's onset is before the age of 20, the disease is known as juvenile Huntington's disease.
HD is a progressive disorder, meaning that it worsens with time. Certain medications may help to manage the disease as it progresses, but there is no known cure and treatment cannot prevent the progression.
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with Huntington's disease, remember that you are not alone. Support groups are available in person and online where patients with HD can interact with others going through the same thing.