Do I Have Major or Mild Neurocognitive Disorder Due To Huntington’s Disease?

Do you meet the criteria for major or mild neurocognitive disorder? There must be changes that impact cognitive functioning. Symptoms can be observed by yourself, a relative or detected through objective testing.

Is onset insidious and do you experience gradual progression?

Is there clinically established Huntington’s disease or risk for Huntington’s disease based on family history or genetic testing?

Can you confirm that the neurocognitive disorder is not attributable to another medical condition and is not better explained by another mental disorder?

Based on your answers, it is unlikely that you have major or mild neurocognitive disorder due to Huntington’s disease.

While it is unlikely that you have major or mild neurocognitive disorder due to Huntington’s disease, you are displaying some signs related to it. When Huntington’s Disease (HD) causes cognitive decline, then it is likely that a diagnosis of major or mild neurocognitive disorder will be made. People who suffer from this disorder show a decline in performance related to learning and memory, perceptual-motor, executive function and language. You may notice it yourself or someone else close to you may notice a difference in previous level of performance. It may be useful to share your symptoms with your doctor to understand what you can do to improve level of functioning.

While it is unlikely that you have major or mild neurocognitive disorder due to Huntington’s disease (HD), you are displaying some signs related to it. Seeking medical attention is recommended in your case. Someone who suffers from HD is likely to have difficulties with memory retrieval and executive functioning. As the illness progresses, the person will have more and more difficulties in daily functioning. They may also show irritability, anxiety and depression. HD is a genetic disorder. Any person over 18 can test if they have the gene. However, this can cause anxiety and distress, so it’s not always a good idea.

Unfortunately, you are displaying the symptoms typically seen among individuals who have major or mild neurocognitive disorder due to Huntington’s disease. Seeking medical support and receiving a diagnosis will help to determine what you need to improve quality of life. Unfortunately, HD is a progressive illness that cannot be cured. Treatment is usually focused on managing symptoms and delaying the progression of the disease. Medications can help too, such as muscle relaxers, antidepressants and antipsychotics. Additionally, patients may benefit from psychotherapy. It will help patients and people close to them to adjust to changing abilities.