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While it is common for an individual with HD to experience anxiety about the future, sometimes excess worry
occurs over seemingly trivial matters. Anxiety, a behavioral symptom of HD, is characterized by:
- Nervousness
- Restlessness
- Fidgeting
- Shallow breathing
- Sweating
- Fear
- Panic
- Rapid heart-rate
- Repetitive thoughts about bothersome topics
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For individuals with HD, continual life changes as HD progresses can be a source of anxiety. Some individuals
become anxious about social engagements because they are embarrassed about visible symptoms, such as chorea.
However, physical brain changes caused by the disease itself may also cause excessive anxiety. As thought
processes become less flexible, changes in routine can exacerbate anxious behavior.
Often, a calm, predictable environment can effectively minimize some behavioral symptoms. |
