Huntington's Disease

Huntington's Disease

Signs and Symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment

Signs and Symptoms

Early symptoms of Huntington's disease (HD) include mood swings, depression and irritability. In addition, patients may notice problems in their daily activities such as driving, learning new things, remembering a fact or making a decision.

As the disease progresses, concentration and short-term memory decline and involuntary movements increase. The ability to walk, speak and swallow deteriorates. Eventually, patients become unable to care for themselves. Death may occur from complications such as choking, infection or heart failure.

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated May 8, 2007