A diagnosis of Huntington's disease is generally confirmed through a genetic test, to check the presence of the abnormally expanded HTT gene. However, a specialist may first review the patient's family's medical history, and evaluate the symptoms to rule out other causes. The signs and symptoms of HD are wide-ranging and can vary from person to person. Generally, symptoms become more severe as the disease progresses. Some common symptoms are listed below. Physical symptoms Rapid, involuntary movements of the fingers, limbs, and facial muscles (chorea); this varies in severity from mild twitching to more severe thrashing as the disease progresses. Rapid movement of the eye used to focus from one object to another (reduced saccadic motion of the eyes) Loss of motor coordination and fine motor movements (e.g., difficulty writing) Cognitive effects Reduced short-term memory Concentration impairment Difficulty with communication( e.g., slow, slurred speech; difficulty in finding words; disorganized speech and sentence construction) Behavioral/personality changes Change in personal hygiene and habits Unusually anxious behavior Irritability and aggression Depression, particularly in later stages Paranoia Dementia A number of complications can arise in late-stage HD, including: Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) resulting in weight loss and increased risk of choking Increased risk of respiratory disease such as pneumonia Incontinence and other urinary tract problems (e.g., infections) Falls and difficulty walking requiring the use of assist devices such as wheelchairs Children with juvenile-onset HD have rigidity, slow movements, and tremors that are similar to symptoms of Parkinson disease.

ANSWER. PAPER DETAILS
Academic Level	Masters
Subject Area	Nursing
Paper Type	Discussion Response
Number of Pages	1 Page(s)/275 words
Sources	3
Format	APA
Spacing	Double Spacing

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