Huntingtons Disease

Question 1

What is Huntington’s Disease?

Answer 1

Huntington’s Disease is an inherited condition genetic disorder which affects the CNS. The disorder disinhibits nerve cells which affects their activity in the brain. There is no cure for Huntington’s disease however, there is a large amount of medication available to support.

Question 2

What can Huntington’s Disease Impact?

Answer 2

Huntington’s disease can affect aspects of an individual’s movement, cognition and behaviour. Huntington’s may affect a person’s ability to focus, absorb new information, process thoughts and show self-restraint. This may lead to depression and social withdrawal.

Question 3

Huntington’s Impact on Speech

Answer 3

A person with Huntington’s may experiences Dysarthria due to the weakness in their muscles used for speech production. This may result in imprecise articulation / unclear speech. The person may also experience Apraxia of Speech - where due to the gradual degeneration of the brain signals may not be sent out as efficiently in order to control/ coordinate these muscles. Other consequences may be difficulties in breathing and speaking at the same time, word finding difficulties and difficulty controlling the speed and volume of speech

Question 4

Dysphagia and Huntington

Answer 4

Pre-oral: Difficulty in proprioception, bringing the food to the both etc.
Oral: Food may spill from the mouth, inadequately chew the food
Poor coordination may lead to aspiration which may lead to pneumonia.
The SLT may have to introduce strategies: eating slowly, avoid distractions, adjust food texture etc.