Huntington’s disease

Huntington's chorea

What is Huntington’s disease?

Huntington’s disease is a condition in which parts of the brain gradually stop working. It can cause problems with mental health, behaviour, movement and communication.

What causes Huntington’s disease?

Huntington’s disease is caused by inheriting a faulty gene that results in gradual damage to parts of the brain. A person is only at risk of developing the condition if one of their parents has had it, and there is a 50% chance of the gene being passed on from parent to child.

What are the symptoms of Huntington’s disease?

The symptoms of Huntington’s disease usually begin to show around 30-50 years of age and get worse over time. They may include:

  • Difficulties with concentration and memory
  • Depression
  • Stumbling and clumsiness
  • Involuntary movements
  • Changes to moods and personality
  • Problems swallowing, speaking and breathing
  • Difficulty moving.

Are you affected by Huntington’s disease?

If you’re affected by Huntington’s, The Brain Charity can support you.

We are the only charity in the UK to be here for every one of the more than 600 different neurological conditions in existence. Individually, many are rare, but combined, they affect 1 in 6 people.

We provide practical help on all aspects of living with Huntington’s disease, emotional support such as counselling, phone befriending and group therapy and social activities to people with Huntington’s from all over the UK from our centre in Liverpool.

Looking to talk to someone?

Woman smiling, making eye contact and holding the hand of another woman to comfort her

Phone us

Contact The Brain Charity now

Our friendly Information & Advice Officers are here to help. We endeavour to respond to all enquiries within 10 working days.

0151 298 2999

Looking to talk to someone?

  • Please tell us which neurological condition you are affected by and what you need support with.

Caring for someone affected by Huntington’s disease

We support carers, friends and family too

Are you a carer for or relative of someone with Huntington’s disease? It’s just as important for you to look after your own physical and mental wellbeing too.

The Brain Charity provides free support for carers, friends and family of people with any form of neurological condition, including Huntington’s, from anywhere in the UK.

We also run an additional carers advocacy service for all carers in Liverpool, regardless of which type of condition the person they care for has.

You don’t need to be a formal or registered carer

We can help you even if you don’t view yourself as a formal carer or claim Carer’s Allowance. Find out some of the ways we support carers below.

Carer support from The Brain Charity in Liverpool Practical help

Support for carers

All The Brain Charity's services are free for carers and family members of people with neurological conditions too.
Get help
Exterior of The Brain Charity on Norton Street in Liverpool Information

Ian’s Huntington’s Disease story

Ian passed away after failings in his care. The Brain Charity supported his family.
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Other resources

The Brain Charity's Library

The Brain Charity’s library has a range of resources on Huntington’s disease and on many other disability-related issues.

Visit our library to read:

Or search the catalogue online here.

Support groups

Huntington’s Disease Association Merseyside branch

Informal meetings that provide a relaxed environment where those affected by Huntington’s disease can meet others and share experiences.

Website: www.hda.org.uk

Phone: 01513315444

Email: info@hda.org.uk

The Brain Charity

Are you interested in setting up a Huntington’s disease support group, or do you already run one? Email activities@thebraincharity.org.uk to let us know.

Other charities

Huntington’s Disease Association

Aims to help people with the condition to live better lives through improving care and support services and education.

Website: www.hda.org.uk

Phone: 01513315444

Email: info@hda.org.uk

Scottish Huntington’s Association

Aims to improve the lives of those living with Huntington’s disease in Scotland.

Website: hdscotland.org

Email: sha-admin@hdscotland.org

Phone: 0141840308