Tourette Syndrome

A nervous system disorder involving repetitive movements or unwanted sounds. Tourette syndrome starts in childhood. It involves uncontrollable repetitive movements or unwanted sounds (tics), such as repeatedly blinking the eyes, shrugging shoulders, or blurting out offensive words. Treatment may include medication or psychological therapies.

Symptoms

Usually self-diagnosable It involves uncontrollable repetitive movements or unwanted sounds (tics), such as repeatedly blinking the eyes, shrugging shoulders, or blurting out offensive words.

People may experience...

Behavioral

• compulsive behavior
• hyperactivity
• impulsivity
• lack of restraint
• meaningless repetition of own words
• nonsense word repetition
• repetitive movements
• swearing uncontrollably

Muscular

• difficulty with bodily movements
• increased muscle activity
• involuntary movements
• involuntary muscle contraction
• jerking muscle spasms
• tic

Mood

• anxiety
• apprehension

Also Common

• coughing
• eyelid twitching
• frequent throat clearing
• learning disability
• repetitive blinking of eyes
• stuttering

Treatment

Treatment consists of self care and therapy, and may include medication or psychological therapies.

Medications

Antipsychotic reduces or improves the symptoms of certain psychiatric conditions.

Self Care

Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, rhythmic exercise, and other activities can reduce symptoms of stress.

Therapies

Cognitive behavioral therapy: A talk therapy focused on modifying negative thoughts, behaviors, and emotional responses associated with psychological distress.
Exposure and response prevention: A talk therapy based on exposing feared or traumatic experiences within a safe setting in order to help reduce any associated psychological distress.

Table of Contents

Symptoms

People may experience...

Treatment

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Titles/Nicknames

Manos Mark

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Quick Facts

Type:

Neurological

Origin:

Mutation

Cycle:

Chronic, Acquired and Congential

Rarity:

Uncommon

Affected Species:

Any

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Causes

The exact cause of Tourette syndrome isn't known. It's a complex disorder likely caused by a combination of inherited (genetic) and environmental factors. Chemicals in the brain that transmit nerve impulses (neurotransmitters), including dopamine and serotonin, might play a role.

Risk factors

Risk factors for Tourette syndrome include:

• Family history. Having a family history of Tourette syndrome or other tic disorders might increase the risk of developing Tourette syndrome.
• Gender. Males are about three to four times more likely than females to develop Tourette syndrome.