What is Huntington's disease?

Huntington's Disease (HD), a rare inherited neurological disorder progressively deteriorates nerve cells in the brain, affecting the physical and mental abilities of the individuals that usually affects middle-aged people between 30 to 50 years of age, with a gradual decline in movement, cognition, and behavioral control. Huntington's disease is caused by genetic changes in the HTT gene, producing an abnormal substance identified as a Huntingtin protein that damages specific brain cells that help in movement and cognitive activities of the person.

What causes Huntington's disease, and what are its symptoms?

As revealed already, HD is caused by a mutation in the HTT gene on chromosome 4, which develops unusually a long sequence of DNA that causes the CAG nucleotide to be repeated at large, producing a toxic Huntingtin protein that by getting accumulated harms brain cells in of patient. Medical experts divide the symptoms into three main categories known as motor, cognitive, and psychiatric symptoms categorizing involuntary movements (chorea), muscle stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination as Motor symptoms, and poor memory, problem-solving, and concentration as cognitive symptoms, while depression, mood swings, irritability, and social withdrawal as psychiatric symptoms. All the symptoms mentioned here get active over time and require prompt medical attention. 

How is Huntington's disease diagnosed?

Diagnosis of HD, a genetic disorder, usually starts with a complete medical check-up and study/analyses of the patient's family history, which include physical check-ups, and neurological assessment, especially focusing on the genetic test to confirm the presence of the HTT gene mutation since the condition is a congenital problem. Doctors conduct brain imaging tests through MRI or CT scans to see if there are any changes in the brain structure associated with HD, particularly in the basal ganglia. If they find symptoms of the problem then they recommend genetic counseling for individuals at risk of HD due to their family history, as it helps assess the likelihood of inheritance and provides better support in genetic testing.

What are the management and treatment options for Huntington's disease?

Although there is no permanent cure for HD, treatment providers contemplate managing the symptoms and improving routine activities of life by prescribing medicines like tetrabenazine or Deutetrabenazine to help control involuntary movements including antidepressants, antipsychotics and mood stabilizers to address psychiatric symptoms of the person. Physical, occupational, and speech therapy support motor and communication skills, maintaining function as long as possible. Cognitive therapy can help with memory and concentration. Multidisciplinary care involving neurologists, psychologists, and social workers is essential to address the diverse symptoms of HD and provide comprehensive care.

Are there any preventive measures for Huntington's disease?

HD is a genetic disorder, so there is no way to prevent the disease from developing in individuals who inherit the HTT gene mutation but individuals with a family history of HD are recommended to undergo genetic counseling for assessing their risk and keeping them informed of family planning/decisions. In some cases, reproductive options like preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) during in vitro fertilization help couples at risk to save their children from HD mutation.

What is the prognosis for individuals with Huntington's disease?

The HD is a progressive disorder the symptoms of which keep worsening over time, eventually affecting the person with serious disability that reduces life expectancy with the onset of symptoms associated with complications such as pneumonia, heart disease, and infections often causing premature death. So the patients must seek immediate medical options for symptom management, and comprehensive care through medical intervention to live a better life.

How can individuals with Huntington's disease manage daily life?

Living with HD involves adopting lifestyle adaptations and receiving regular medical support. Maintaining a balanced diet, practicing physical exercises to manage stiffness, and engaging in mental activities can help sustain physical and cognitive function. Emotional support from family, friends, and support groups is invaluable in coping with the disease. Access to specialized care facilities and connecting with HD organizations can also provide guidance and resources for both patients and caregivers, enabling a supportive approach to life with HD.

Why Choose Tender Palm Super-Specialty Hospital for Huntington's disease?

Tender Palm Super-Specialty Hospital, a doctor-owned institution, is acclaimed for attracting the nation’s most skilled neurological specialists. With a team of highly trained neurologists and neurosurgeons specializing in neurodegenerative disorders, including Huntington's Disease (HD), Tender Palm Super-Specialty Hospital stands out as the leading neurology center in Gomtinagar, Lucknow, India.

Our specialists are experts in managing Huntington's disease, from symptom control to multidisciplinary support, ensuring comprehensive care. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, advanced neuroimaging, and the latest therapeutic options, Tender Palm provides unparalleled medical care tailored to the complex needs of HD patients.

To schedule a consultation with a neurology specialist

Call us at +91-9076972161
Email at care@tenderpalm.com