Symptom 6: Weight Loss – The Unintended Consequence
Weight loss is a common symptom in Huntington’s disease. However, it’s not a direct result of the disease but rather an unintended consequence of the other symptoms. The uncontrollable movements, coupled with difficulty swallowing and general apathy towards food, often lead to significant weight loss.
It’s not uncommon for individuals with HD to burn more calories than they consume due to the constant involuntary movements. Add to this the struggle with swallowing, which can make meal times stressful and even dangerous, and it becomes clear why weight loss is a common issue.
The weight loss can have serious health implications. It can lead to malnutrition, weakening the immune system and making the person more susceptible to illnesses. It also increases the risk of other health problems such as osteoporosis and heart conditions.
Managing weight in Huntington’s disease can be challenging but is crucial to maintaining overall health. Regular monitoring, dietary changes, and in severe cases, medical interventions might be necessary to ensure the individual maintains a healthy weight. (6)
