Tourette Syndrome

Tourette Syndrome (TS) is an inherited neurological disorder characterized by repeated involuntary movements and uncontrollable vocal sounds called tics. In a few cases, such tics can include inappropriate words and phrases. The symptoms of TS generally appear before the individual is 18 years old.

Although TS symptoms range from very mild to quite severe, the majority of cases fall into the mild category. Symptoms change periodically in number, frequency, type and severity - even disappearing for weeks or month at a time. Commonly, motor tics may be eye blinking, head jerking, shoulder shrugging, facial grimacing. Vocally - throat clearing, barking noises, sniffing and tongue clicking.

People with TS can sometimes suppress their tics for a short time, but eventually tension mounts to the point where the tic escapes. Tics worsen in stressful situations and improve when the person relaxes or is absorbed in an activity. TS is diagnosed by observing the symptoms and evaluating family history. Tics must be present for at least one year. TS is a clinical diagnosis. Tourette syndrome also may be accompanied by attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.

While there is no cure, medication is available to help control the symptoms. Many people with TS get better, not worse, as they mature. In a small minority of cases symptoms remit completely in adulthood. As a group, children with TS have the same IQ range as the population at large. But problems in dealing with tics, often combined with attention deficits and other learning difficulties, may call for special education assistance. Examples of teaching strategies include: technical help such as tape recorders, typewriters or computers to assist reading and writing and access to tutoring in a resource room. Under federal law, an identification as "handicapped" or "other health impaired" entitles the student to an Individual Education Plan.

In general, people with TS lead productive lives and can anticipate a normal life span. Despite problems of varying severity, many reach high levels of achievement and number in the ranks as surgeons, psychiatrists, teachers and professional athletes. arrow: More...

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