What Happens in Huntington’s Disease?

you’re free to get tested for the gene if you have a family history of Huntington’s.

With this test, you will know whether you will develop the condition long before you have symptoms.

Genetic testing for Huntingtons disease is a personal decision.

It can have a profound emotional impact on you and those who care about you.

Verywell / Ellen Lindner

Does Huntingtons Run in Families?

Huntingtons disease runs in families.

Everyone has two copies of the gene that codes for a protein called “Huntingtin.”

A specific bang out of mutation (alteration from standard) in the Huntingtin gene causes the disease.

You may want to discuss whether you will share results with family members before you get tested.

Choreais a characteristic throw in of involuntary movement in Huntingtons disease.

This movement is often described as a smooth, writhing, squirmy, or twisting motion.

It can affect any part of the body when you have Huntingtons disease.

The loss of thinking skills and behavioral changes lead to a lack of self-care abilities.

Several types of healthcare professionals might be involved in caring for Huntingtons disease.

You may need to work with different specialists throughout treatment.

Several therapies can help manage the symptoms of Huntingtons disease.

The symptoms that are most prominent for you might not be the same prominent symptoms in someone else.

Your neurologist or psychiatrist may assist you in learning about ongoing research trials.

it’s possible for you to ask about the details as you consider whether you want to participate.

Taking care of your own mental health before you develop symptoms is an important aspect of self-care.

Treatments can help control symptoms, but there is no cure.

doi:10.1002/gps.5913

National Institute Neurological Disorders and Stroke.Huntington’s disease.