Huntington’s disease is a neurodegenerative disease, like Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease, in which the number of neurons in certain parts of the brain related to movement and thinking gradually decreases. On this occasion, Dr. Pablo Zumaeta, neurologist at Clinica Ricardo Palma, will give us more information.

Causes

This disease is hereditary, as it is caused by a defect (mutation) in the genes. When a part of the DNA is altered, an abnormal protein called huntingtin appears in areas of the brain.

Symptoms

The symptoms of this disease usually appear between the ages of 30 and 50, the following are the main ones:

• Involuntary movements (at the beginning they are similar to those of a restless person, intensifying with the passing of time)
• Lack or loss of memory (preventing daily tasks)
• Irritability
• Depression

Prevention

The diagnosis must be early and precise, since most of the symptoms can be alleviated; however, this disease is almost always progressive.

Recommendations

Having a father or mother with this disease does not necessarily mean that the children will have it. Heredity is not the only factor. It is rare for the disease to appear if the person has stable social conditions. Therefore, it is advisable to treat any degree of anxiety or depression, avoid a sedentary life, maintain a stable job and a harmonious family life.

Dr. Pablo Zumaeta
Neurologist at Clinica Ricardo Palma