3. Early Manifestations: The Warning Signs of HD
One of the most perplexing aspects of Huntington’s disease is the way it insidiously sneaks into a person’s life. Initially, the signs of HD may not be glaringly obvious, masquerading as everyday issues. Many of the early symptoms are subtle and can be easily mistaken for stress or aging, but identifying them as soon as possible could be a turning point in managing the disease.
The earliest signs of HD often involve subtle changes in coordination, such as a slight imbalance or clumsiness. An individual might have difficulty driving, typing on a keyboard, or performing any other tasks that require fine motor skills. These coordination problems gradually intensify, ultimately leading to the characteristic involuntary jerking or twitching movements, known as chorea.
Simultaneously, changes in mood and mental abilities often occur. Family members might notice a certain apathy, irritability, or depression. Cognitive changes, such as difficulty focusing, forgetfulness, or trouble learning new information, may also appear in the early stages of HD.
Additionally, the early signs of HD can also include physical changes. Subtle alterations in facial expressions, minor changes in handwriting, and a slight tremor in the fingers might appear. Even speech might start to be affected, with individuals beginning to slur their words or speak more slowly. (3)
