It is important to know that a diagnosis of Huntington’s disease (HD) does not mean reduced quality of life. Living at risk, gene positive or with symptoms may affect some aspects of your life, but many people find great joy in spending time with loved ones, and focusing on each day as it comes. Don’t feel afraid of reaching out for support from loved ones and health professionals if you feel it may help you.
HD affects three key areas: cognitive function, physicality and emotions. The order in which these may be affected is different for everyone, although many people find their cognitive function is the first to be affected.
Although many symptoms are common, it is important to know every person’s experience with HD is different, which leads to different requirements for each individual. There are, however, some common patterns that can help you to understand the general progression of the disease.
If you have been diagnosed with HD, the information below will help you understand the disease in more detail.
WORDS: adapted from Huntington’s QLD
