Huntington's Flashcards
1
Q
What is HD?
A
- Fatal genetic disorder causing progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain
- No cure
- Family disease - autosomal dominant
2
Q
When do symptoms appear?
A
ages 30-50, worsen over a 10-25 year period
3
Q
How do pts with HD usually die?
A
Typically due to complications from HD:
- Weakened individuals are prone to pneumonia, heart failure or other complications
- choking, infection
4
Q
What are symptoms of HD?
A
- Personality changes, mood swings, and depression
- Forgetfulness and impaired judgment
- Unsteady gait and involuntary movements (chorea)
- Slurred speech, difficulty in swallowing and significant weight loss
5
Q
What characterizes the early stage of HD?
A
subtle changes in coordination and some chorea, difficulty thinking through problems, and depressed or irritable mood
6
Q
What characterizes the middle stage of HD?
A
medication for chorea may be considered, OT and PT may be needed to help maintain control of voluntary movements, diminished speech and difficulty swallowing
7
Q
What characterizes the late stage of HD?
A
totally dependent on others for care, choking becomes major concern, chorea may be severe or ceases, no longer ambulatory and unable to speak
