Huntington disease is what type of genetic disorder

It gets gradually worse over time and is usually fatal after a period of up to 20 years. Symptoms The symptoms usually start at 30 to 50 years of age, but can begin much earlier or later. Symptoms of Huntington's disease can include: difficulty concentrating and memory lapses depression stumbling and clumsiness involuntary jerking or fidgety movements of the limbs and body mood swings and personality changes problems swallowing , speaking and breathing difficulty moving Full-time nursing care is needed in the later stages of the condition.

How it's inherited Huntington's disease is caused by a faulty gene that results in parts of the brain becoming gradually damaged over time. When to get medical advice Speak to your GP for advice if: you're worried you might have symptoms of Huntington's disease — especially if someone in your family has or had it you have a history of the condition in your family and you want to find out if you will get it, too you have a history of the condition in your family and you're planning a pregnancy Your GP may refer you to a specialist for tests to check for Huntington's disease.

Treatment and support There's currently no cure for Huntington's disease or any way to stop it getting worse. But treatment and support can help reduce some of the problems it causes, such as: medicines for depression, mood swings and involuntary movements occupational therapy to help make everyday tasks easier speech and language therapy for feeding and communication problems physiotherapy to help with movement and balance Read more about treatment and support for Huntington's disease.

Further information and advice Living with Huntington's disease can be very distressing and frustrating for the person with the condition, as well as their loved ones and carers. We inherit genes from our parents. Our gene…. A CT computed tomography or CAT computerized axial tomography head scan looks inside your head and neck.

CT and…. Visit The Symptom Checker. Read More. Food Poisoning. Acute Bronchitis. Eustachian Tube Dysfunction. Bursitis of the Hip. Abnormal Uterine Bleeding. High Blood Pressure. Table of Contents. It cannot be prevented or avoided. You may require: Physical therapy, such as walking Occupational therapy activities using your hands Speech therapies to help with slurred speech or trouble swallowing You also may require assistance at home for activities of daily living.

Last Updated: March 1, This article was contributed by: familydoctor. Tags: genetic disorders. Related Articles. The huntingtin protein is very large and seems to have many functions, especially as the brain is developing before birth, but it is not fully understood. We know that the extra CAG repeats in people with HD cause the huntingtin protein to be extra-long and difficult to maintain, which makes it difficult for it to do its job.

The most vulnerable part of the brain in HD is called the striatum, and it controls movement, mood, and memory. Damage to the striatum over time is what causes the symptoms of HD. There is currently no cure or treatment which can halt, slow or reverse the progression of the disease. However, there are many treatments and interventions that can help to manage HD symptoms.

A neurologist, psychiatrist, or nurse with expertise in HD may prescribe medications to ease anxiety and depression, help with troublesome. A psychologist or social worker can provide individual or group counseling. Physical and occupational therapists can work with patients and families to develop strength, move safely, and adjust the home environment and activities as needed.

Speech language pathologists and nutritionists can help with communication, eating and swallowing safely, and combating weight loss. Clinician researchers may suggest participation in HD clinical trials. Social and community support is an important part of HD care.