Huntington's Disease

[billybek]

One of my friends and neighbors was diagnosed with this a few years ago and has declined since his diagnosis.

Does anyone here have any experience in dealing with people with Huntington's?

We were given some advice on how to deal with Dave a year ago but I am wondering if any of you have had first hand experience with this.

Such a lovely family and such a cruel disease.

[Tobra]

His doctors already told him, but he needs to get his kids checked out

[2porscheguy]

Originally Posted by Tobra

His doctors already told him, but he needs to get his kids checked out

Yes, this needs to be done unfortunately as it's a 50/50 chance his kids will also be afflicted.

My older brother's best friend's (since grade school) family is afflicted by this awful disease. He tested negative sometime ago but has since lost a younger brother and sister (in mid 40s). He and his other brother are ok though. Sadly I believe 3 out of 5 nieces/nephews have tested positive....

[Tobra]

Woodie Guthrie died of Huntingtons. It is a genetic deal that does not manifest until later in life.

[tcar]

Originally Posted by Tobra

... It is a genetic deal that does not manifest until later in life.

"Symptoms usually begin between 30 and 50 years of age, but can start at any age.
The disease may develop earlier in life in each successive generation.
About 8% of cases start before the age of 20 years and typically present with symptoms more similar to Parkinson's disease."

[billybek]

It is amazing how much it has changed his base personality.
He was a pretty happy guy, always smiling. Now he hardly smiles but is still very good in social situations and intelligent.
I guess if you were handed a non curable disease, your ability to smile might be compromised.
A good number of those affected commit suicide.

[tcar]

Originally Posted by billybek

A good number of those affected commit suicide.

Around 10%, plus or minus.... as of a few years ago.

That's also true of people with certain types of MS and ALS... and some cancers, etc.

[vash]

damn.

best wishes.

[Rednine11]

A friend of mine has it and his mother had it
horrible, no other way to describe it