Huntington’s disease, also known as Huntington’s chorea, is a degenerative neurological disease in which brain cells slowly deteriorate until they stop working. Huntington’s disease is classified as an autosomal dominant disease, which means that a child can inherit the disease if only one parent carries the abnormal gene. It is estimated that one in ten thousand people suffers from this disease, of which sixteen percent of these cases are juvenile onset. Although there is currently no cure for this terminal illness, there are many treatments to alleviate the symptoms and much research is being done to hopefully one day find an end to the suffering of their captives.

There are many physical and mental symptoms that characterize this deadly disease. Early mental symptoms include: anger, depression, sudden mood swings, and difficulty making decisions and learning new information. Patients can often develop bipolar symptoms with manic and depressive phases. Physical symptoms include: balance problems, involuntary facial movements, jaw clenching, and sudden changes in handwriting. Later symptoms may include: severe coordination problems, rapid eye movement, slurred speech, trouble swallowing, and dementia. The symptoms of Huntington’s disease will not usually appear until around the age of forty or later.

There are many tests that doctors can use to diagnose Huntington’s disease. First, there is a physical exam where the doctor will assess motor skills and functions. The doctor will also take note of the patient’s and family’s medical history. They may perform a CT scan or MRI to check areas of the brain for neurological problems. Doctors may also request that the patient have a blood test for the Huntington’s gene. Based on these tests, a doctor can refer the patient to other specialists who can further assist him in the difficult process of treating this disease.

Although Huntington’s disease is incurable, research and technology are bringing doctors and scientists closer to better treatments and possibly a cure for this disease. Doctors often recommend that patients follow regular schedule medications to treat many of the symptoms that can make it difficult to function normally in daily life. The first drug approved by the FDA to directly treat many of Huntington’s symptoms was tetrabenazine. Doctors may also prescribe tranquilizers like Klonopin and antipsychotics like Halopendol to control movement, hallucinations, and violent outbursts. Scientists are also investigating stem cell treatments and combinations of other drugs used to treat other terminal illnesses.

Although medications are very effective in treating the symptoms of this disease, there are many things a patient can do at home to stay healthy for longer. Because this disease causes motor degeneration, patients must exercise every day to help keep their muscles and motor function strong. Patients should also maintain a healthy diet that should also include additional vitamin supplements. People with Huntington’s often burn more than 4,000 calories a day, so they need extra nutrients to maintain a healthy weight. Those affected may also experience dehydration and should ensure that they consume extra fluids to avoid this. Physical and speech therapy are also recommended to help combat the strong effects of this disease.