What is Huntington’s Disease?

• Huntington's Disease is found in every country in the world.
• Men and women are at equal risk of inheriting the disease. 
• The child of an affected parent has a 50 per cent chance of inheriting the gene and developing the manifestations of Huntington’s disease. 
• In Australia over 1,800 people have HD and approximately 9,000 are at risk. 

• The most common symptom is jerky movements of the arms and legs, known as ‘chorea’.
• Chorea usually starts as mild twitching and gradually increases over the years.
• Lack of coordination and a tendency to knock things over 
• Walking difficulties 
• Speech and swallowing difficulties. 
• Short-term memory loss 
• Difficulties in concentrating and making plans. 
• Depression (around one third of people with Huntington's disease experience depression) 
• Mood swings, apathy and aggression 

References:
Huntingtons Disease - Health Conditions And Treatments
Huntingtons Disease Facts
Health Direct