Tourette’s Syndrome

What is Tourettes? Tourette Syndrome (TS) is a neurological disorder characterized by tics Tics are involuntary, rapid, sudden movements or vocalizations that occur repeatedly

Tics Tics might be described as “compelling” rather than involuntary. People with TS feel an irresistible urge to perform their tics Some can hold back their tics for hours at a time This leads to a stronger outburst of tics once they are finally allowed to be expressed.

Diagnostic Criteria Both multiple motor and one or more vocal tics present at same time, although not necessarily simultaneously Tics occur many times a day nearly everyday throughout the span of more than one year Onset usually occurs between 5 –18 years

2 Types of Tics Motor Tics – eye blinking, head jerking, shoulder shrugging and facial grimacing. Vocal Tics – Clearing your throat, sniffing, tongue clicking, words or phrases.

Examples of Tics MOTOR TICS: Many different kinds of simple motor tics. Ex: Ankle flexing, head jerking, nose twitching, eye blinking, leg jerking Making obscene gestures Mimicking movements that others make VOCAL TICS: Vocalizing obscene or other socially unacceptable words or phrases (coprolalia) – very rare These come from the uncontrollable urge to voice the forbidden even when they are the direct opposite of their actual beliefs. Repeating what someone else just said Repeating your own words over and over again

Co-Occurring Disorders People with TS are more likely to have any combination of the following problems: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Learning Disabilities Sleep disorders

Causes of TS Research is ongoing, but it is believed that an abnormal metabolism of the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin are involved with the disorder. Genetically transmitted by a dominant gene Parents having a 50% chance of passing the gene on to their children Girls with the gene have a 70% chance of displaying symptoms, boys with the gene have a 99% chance of displaying symptoms Some research suggests that there might be a connection between strep throat infections and TS, but this is still being studied.

Treatments There is NO cure for TS, and no specific TS medication — although some medications can help control tics if they are severe enough to interfere with a person's life. Not a psychological condition, but doctors sometimes refer teens with TS to a psychologist or psychiatrist. A therapist can help people with TS cope with stress better and learn relaxation techniques.

Living with Tourette Syndrome Many people get better as they mature. In a small minority the symptoms completely disappear. IQ of people with TS is normal but tics often interfere with academic success. Many learn to deal with TS and go on to live productive lives (see the Canadian doctor in Oliver Sacks’ book Anthropologist on Mars)