Huntington's Disease

Neurobehavioral Changes

Emotional or behavioral disturbances tend to develop gradually over time and may become apparent before or concurrent with the motor manifestations of HD.

In some patients, initial symptoms of HD may include personality changes, such as:

• Increased irritability
• A tendency to easily find fault with others
• Constant complaining
• Suspiciousness
• Impulsiveness
• Lack of self-control
• Lack of interest in acts that previously provided pleasure (anhedonia)

Additional behavioral, emotional, or psychiatric disturbances may also become apparent, including:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Mania
• Depression accompanied by mania
• Obsessive-compulsive behaviors
• Agitation
• Hostile outbursts
• Sleep disturbances
• Increasing social withdrawal

Severe distortions in thinking may also occur, including false beliefs or delusions, such as fears of persecution. In addition, hallucinations may develop, such as the perception of sounds, sights, or other sensations in the absence of external stimuli.