Treatment for Huntington's Disease


The absence of any cure for Huntington's disease is the appalling part of contracting the disease. Once Huntington's disease sets in, it cannot be reversed or slowed down. Ongoing medical research tries to test the efficacy of artificial molecules that can interfere in the production of proteins that can result in forming molecules that give rise to Huntington's.

Treatment for Huntington's disease comprises the medication to relieve its symptoms, to a certain extent. Tetrabenazine is being used for settling the jerks and involuntary movements or chorea that Huntington's brings in. Yet, side effects like nausea, drowsiness and even depression in some people, have been reported on the usage of this drug.

A physician, to manage the depression and outbursts associated with this malady, may also prescribe drugs like clonazepan or fluoxetine. Introducing lithium medication may also be prescribed for the oscillating mood cycle or depression.

Speech therapy helps people who are diagnosed with Huntington's disease to find out ways to overcome their slurring in speech. Occupational therapy also goes a long way in helping individuals regain a sense of balance and loco motor skills. Gene therapy for Huntington's disease is in the stage of embryonic research and is believed to hold promises for treating Huntington's in the future.

A diet rich in fresh fruits and plenty of vegetables provides ample antioxidants believed to act as a defense mechanism against the symptoms of Huntington's. Huntington's disease can be treated only to the extent of relieving the intensity of its symptoms. This also necessitates the services of a caregiver in the latter stages of the disease.