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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Huntington's Disease?

we believe my husbands son has huntingtons disease. He is 20 years old and likes to smoke and drink. We believe this has made him worse and now he is in legal trouble. We think this is making his condition worse. Can the effects of marijuana and alcohol be making him worse with the huntingtons? Please help!
Mon, 12 Jan 2015
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Pathologist and Microbiologist 's  Response
Hi
Thanks for query.
Based on your query and reports my opinion is
1. Huntington's disease is a inherited disorder with a single gene defect. Causes impairment of movement and cognitive functions.
2. There are involuntary movements occurring in the form of loss of balance, muscle weakness and cognitive dysfunction like impaired judgment/ decision making, emotional outbursts, difficulty in speech and swallowing.
3. It can also cause depression, loss of appetite
4. Since alcohol affects cognitive functioning, intake of alcohol would worsen the symptoms of huntington's disease
5. Its better to avoid alcohol intake and drugs in any form which can be addictive.
Hope this helps
Regards
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What Causes Huntington's Disease?

Hi Thanks for query. Based on your query and reports my opinion is 1. Huntington s disease is a inherited disorder with a single gene defect. Causes impairment of movement and cognitive functions. 2. There are involuntary movements occurring in the form of loss of balance, muscle weakness and cognitive dysfunction like impaired judgment/ decision making, emotional outbursts, difficulty in speech and swallowing. 3. It can also cause depression, loss of appetite 4. Since alcohol affects cognitive functioning, intake of alcohol would worsen the symptoms of huntington s disease 5. Its better to avoid alcohol intake and drugs in any form which can be addictive. Hope this helps Regards