Understanding HD

Huntington's Disease is a disease of both the mind and the body. It is an inherited, progressively degenerative brain disorder.

Typically, symptoms appear between age 30 and 50. However, cases have been noted as early as 2 and as late as 80. The first symptoms usually appear slowly and can vary from person to person. Early symptoms include involuntary movements of the body and limbs and marked personality changes. Over a period of 10-25 years the ability to think, to speak and to walk is greatly diminished in persons with HD.

About ten percent of the HD cases will be juvenile striking at a very early age and progressing very rapidly.

At present, there is no cure. However, modern medicine has provided many drug treatments that help improve the quality of life for those with HD.

HD affects all sexes, races, ethnic groups, and ages. Each child of an affected parent with HD has a 50/50 chance of inheriting the gene. If a person carries the gene eventually they will develop HD.

© 1997-2004 Huntington Disease Society of America Western PA Chapter
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