Major Symptoms Of Huntington's Disease

Speech Difficulties

Experiencing speech difficulties is another common symptom of Huntington's disease and one that can greatly exasperate a patient and increase anxiety and depression. The average individual uses over one hundred muscles to create speech, and those with Huntington's disease tend to have muscular atrophy or degradation in these muscles. Because these muscles weaken or are uncontrollable, due to the malfunction in brain signal transmission in Huntington's disease, they often produce slurred or unclear speech. This is specifically referred to as dysarthria.

Apraxia is another speech and communication problem prevalent in Huntington's disease patients. This is caused by the brain's limited ability to send signals, which can affect breathing and speed and volume control when speaking. Speech and language therapy can play a crucial role in slowing down these degenerative effects on the muscles. Exercising these muscles regularly will keep them as strong as possible for a longer period.

Continue reading to learn about another symptom of Huntington's disease.