Ever forgotten where you left your keys and thought, “Wow, my brain feels scrambled today”? Now imagine a condition where the brain slowly loses control over movement, thinking, and emotions. That’s the reality of Huntington’s disease, a rare but serious disorder that affects thousands of families, including right here in Australia.
Understanding Huntington’s Disease
Huntington’s disease is a genetic brain disorder. That means it’s passed down from parent to child through a faulty gene. The condition damages nerve cells in the brain, which leads to problems with movement, mood, and memory over time.
Doctors often describe it as having symptoms similar to Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and motor neuron disease — all rolled into one. It’s rare, but for those affected, it has a huge impact on daily life.
How Huntington’s Disease Is Inherited
The key fact about Huntington’s disease is that it only takes one copy of the faulty gene to pass it on.
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If a parent has the gene, each child has a 50% chance of inheriting it.
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Symptoms usually show up between ages 30 and 50, but they can appear earlier or later.
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There’s currently no cure, but treatments can help manage symptoms.
This makes genetic testing really important for families with a history of the disease.
What Happens in the Brain
Inside the brain, Huntington’s disease slowly destroys certain nerve cells. These cells help control movement, thinking, and emotions.
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People may develop involuntary movements (known as chorea).
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Mood swings, depression, or anxiety are common.
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Thinking clearly and remembering things becomes harder.
It’s a progressive condition, which means symptoms get worse over time. However, support from doctors, physiotherapists, and counsellors can improve quality of life.
Huntington’s Disease in Australia
Although Huntington’s is rare, it still affects around 1,800 Australians and thousands more are at risk due to family history.
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Support groups like Huntington’s NSW & ACT and Huntington’s Victoria provide guidance.
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Researchers in Australia are also working on new therapies and trials.
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Awareness is growing, helping reduce stigma and increase understanding.
Interesting Facts About Huntington’s Disease
Here are a few things you might not know:
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The faulty gene was discovered in 1993, a breakthrough for genetic science.
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People with the gene will eventually develop the disease — there’s no “carrier only.”
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Exercise and healthy routines may help manage symptoms, even if they can’t stop the disease.
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Some people live with Huntington’s for 15–20 years after symptoms begin.
Living With Huntington’s Disease
Daily life with Huntington’s disease can be challenging, but support makes a difference. Families often adapt by:
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Creating routines for meals, rest, and exercise.
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Using speech or occupational therapy for communication and independence.
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Staying connected to community support groups.
Even though the condition is tough, many families find strength in solidarity and shared experiences.
Personal Insight
I first learned about Huntington’s disease through a documentary, and it stuck with me. Watching families talk about the mix of love, fear, and resilience was moving. It made me realise how important awareness and empathy are for conditions we don’t hear about every day.
Wrapping It Up
So, what is Huntington’s disease? It’s a genetic brain disorder that affects movement, thinking, and mood, passed from one generation to the next. While there’s no cure yet, treatments, research, and strong support networks in Australia are helping families live better with it.
Have you heard of Huntington’s disease before, or do you know someone impacted by it? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.