Early Signs of Huntington’s Disease

Involuntary Movements

In some cases, Huntington’s disease will initially manifest itself as small, uncontrollable muscle movements. In speaking with Prevention, Susan Perlman, MD, a neurologist and director of UCLA’s Huntington’s Disease Center of Excellence, says the affected individual may not be aware of these changes, and it is often friends or family who will notice “fingers always tapping or a twitch in the face.”

In the later stages of the disease, these small movements may evolve into more pronounced jerking or twitching, a condition known as chorea.

Depression

Depression among those with Huntington’s disease is very common. In fact, the Mayo Clinic says it is the most common psychiatric disorder associated with the disease.

But the source points out that the depression is not simply a reaction to a diagnosis. Rather, it occurs “because of injury to the brain and subsequent changes in brain function.” This can lead to additional symptoms, such as irritability, social withdrawal, insomnia, and/or fatigue.

Short-Term Memory Loss

A person in the early stages of Huntington’s disease may also have trouble remembering things. Specifically, they may struggle with short-term memory lapses. According to ImproveMemory.org, other memory issues include “poor judgment and decision making skills, difficulties with problem solving abilities, and a short attention span that can deteriorate over time.”

In some cases, individuals with Huntington’s disease will develop dementia. The Alzheimer’s Society says symptoms can include “difficulties with concentration, planning and organisational skills.” Unlike those with Alzheimer’s disease, however, patients with Huntington’s disease that have dementia will “continue to recognize people and places until the very late stages of the illness.”

Slight Lack of Emotion

As Huntington’s disease damages areas of the brain responsible for emotion, an early symptom of the disorder is that a person may exhibit apathy (or a lack of emotions).

Or, on the flip side, they may alternate emotions quite erratically, experiencing outbursts of aggression, anger, excitement, or frustration. As with the other symptoms, this emotional turmoil generally worsens as the disease progresses, putting immense strain on personal relationships.

Slowing or Stiffness

Early on, a person with Huntington’s disease may notice that their movements become slower, or find that their muscles feel stiff on occasion.

As the disease worsens, so too may these symptoms. Some individuals may develop dystonia, a movement disorder that causes the muscles to contract involuntarily or become rigid over time. This can eventually lead to issues with posture, speech and swallowing.