If you or a loved one has Huntington’s Disease, there is probably a massive concern about catching the coronavirus. Staff at a palliative care facility in Los Angeles tell us that just because you have Huntington’s disease doesn’t necessarily mean you have an increased risk of contracting the coronavirus.
Unfortunately, if a person has advanced Huntington’s Disease, the symptoms may escalate the risk for complications from the respiratory virus, such as problems swallowing or clearing secretions from the lungs according to the hospice staff in Pasadena and Los Angeles. Other determinants that could cause an increased risk of complications are older age and having other critical medical conditions such as heart disease, respiratory illnesses, diabetes, and kidney failure.
At the same time, as professionals at a hospice in Los Angeles and Pasadena note that much of the country is opening up again and more people are getting vaccinated, it is essential than ever to stay safe and have a clear idea of what to do if you feel unwell.
What Is Huntington’s Disease?
Professionals at a palliative care center in Los Angeles explain to us that Huntington’s disease can lead to a wide range of symptoms, including issues with mental health, behavior, movement, and communication.
These symptoms usually occur when the person is in their thirties to fifties, but it can start earlier than this juvenile Huntington’s disease) or the disease can begin much later. When the symptoms begin, they slowly get worse.
What Are The Early Symptoms?
The initial symptoms of Huntington’s Disease usually include the following:
- difficulty concentrating
- memory lapses
- depression – including low mood, a lack of interest in things, and feelings of hopelessness
- stumbling and clumsiness
- mood swings, such as irritability or aggressive behavior
Medical experts at palliative care Los Angeles recommend you visit your physician if you are concerned that you or a loved one could have the early symptoms of Huntington’s disease, particularly if you have a history of the condition in your family.
Many factors can cause these symptoms, so it is best to get them checked out as soon as you possibly can.
Your physician may suggest having a test for Huntington’s disease.
More Advanced Symptoms Of Huntington’s Disease
As time progresses, someone with Huntington’s disease may develop the following symptoms:
- involuntary jerking or fidgety movements of the limbs and body
- difficulty speaking clearly – over time, they may find all communication very difficult
- swallowing problems – they may choke on food and get lung infections (pneumonia) from food going down the wrong way
- increasingly slow or rigid movements
- personality changes – sometimes they may change, so they don’t seem like their former self at all
- breathing problems
- difficulty moving around – they may eventually lose the ability to walk or sit up by themselves
In the later stages, those with Huntington’s disease will find daily activities increasingly difficult and require full-time nursing care.
Coronavirus And Huntington’s Disease
You should be aware of the list of symptoms that the coronavirus includes: cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fever, chills or shaking, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, and the recent loss of smell or taste. The virus spreads through person-to-person contact through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even just talks.
When Should I Speak To My Doctor?
If you notice that you or your loved one has any new or perhaps worsening symptoms, no matter what you think is causing these changes, talk to your physician immediately. You could be offered a telehealth visit rather than an in-office appointment. This is a method of assessing a patient’s health while keeping you safe from being exposed to the coronavirus.
If you do get sick, make certain you have a plan in place. Create a list of the medicines you take, medical providers, and other care providers. Additionally, take note of how you or your loved one plans to remain in touch with caregivers and family – for instance, email, text message, or phone calls.
Also, you should confirm with your doctor’s office if you can use a telehealth visit for regularly scheduled appointments for you or the individual you are caring for. Medicare is now covering these virtual visits because of the circumstances involving the pandemic.
How To Stay Safe From The Coronavirus?
Huntington’s disease is a serious illness, so it is crucial that if you or someone you know is affected by this illness, you make an effort to follow the health and safety guidelines related to Covid-19. Although the world is slowly opening up again, the virus is still circulating, and there may be more than one risk factor that could result in severe complications if you or the person you care for catches this infection. Vaccines are becoming more available, so make sure to receive yours.
However, even if you are completely vaccinated, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Huntington’s Disease Society of America (HDSA) advise those in higher-risk groups to keep health and safety practices. These consist of proper and frequent handwashing or use of hand sanitizer, wearing face coverings in public, and physical distancing with anyone outside of your immediate family circle.
If you depend on carers at home, make it a point that they use face masks and follow all handwashing practices when they are with you and your loved ones. The same rules should apply to any visitor who is in your home.
How Does Palliative Care Help?
Some of you may be already working with a palliative team. Still, if this is something new to you, you must be aware of this medical specialty that concentrates on managing the intricate symptoms, side effects, and stress of serious illnesses such as Huntington’s disease. The team works with existing doctors to tackle your symptoms, including depression, anxiety, or difficulty sleeping. Also, the team oversees the symptoms related to other medical issues you may have, such as heart disease, lung disease, or conditions that are physically and/or mentally agonizing.
