What is Tourette Syndrome (TS)

Tourette syndrome is a condition that affects the nervous system (neurological condition). TS is characterized by tics, which are repeated involuntary movements and uncontrollable vocal sounds.

TS is usually passed along from parent to child (inherited).

TS is a lifelong (chronic) condition that may get better over time. It often occurs along with other disorders. In rare cases, TS is not inherited. In these cases, the condition is referred to as sporadic Tourette syndrome. TS may also be called Gilles de la Tourette syndrome or Tourette’s syndrome.

What are the causes?

The cause of this condition is not known.

What increases the risk?

This condition is more likely to develop in:

• Men.
• People with a family history of TS, tic disorders, or obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).

What are the signs or symptoms?

The main symptoms of this condition are repetitive verbal (phonic) or physical (motor) tics. Tics are involuntary and unintentional. They may begin in one part of the body and spread. Tics vary greatly among people with TS. They often change over time in frequency, type, and severity.

Motor Tics

• Head jerking.
• Neck stretching.
• Jumping.
• Foot stamping.
• Twisting and bending the body.

Phonic Tics

• Shouts.
• Barks or yelps.
• Grunts.
• Sniffs.
• Coughs.
• Throat clearing.
• Inappropriate words and phrases (rare).

Other symptoms

• Expression of more than one tic in a row or at the same time (complex tic).
• Involuntary urges to express tics, followed by relief after tics are expressed. This is similar to the urge to scratch an itch or sneeze.
• A feeling of tension, burning, or tingling that builds up until you express a tic.
• Increased frequency or severity of tics during times of stress or fatigue.
• Self-harming behavior (rare).

Sometimes, tics improve over time. It is possible that tics may go away completely in adulthood (remission).

How is this diagnosed?

This condition is diagnosed by your health care provider observing your tics. TS is usually diagnosed during childhood or adolescence. Your health care provider will also evaluate your family medical history. Tests that may be done include:

• Blood tests.
• MRI.
• CT scan.
• Electroencephalogram (EEG).

Tourette syndrome can be associated with other conditions (comorbid conditions or comorbidities), such as:

• OCD. This is a common comorbidity.
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
• Learning disabilities.
• Behavioral problems.
• If you have a comorbid condition, you may be referred to a health care provider who specializes in that condition.

How is this treated?

There is no cure for this condition. However, TS can be managed by controlling tics and treating comorbid conditions, if necessary. Treatment may include:

• Recommendations for a support group or educational resources.
• Behavioral therapy.
• Supportive counseling and therapy.
• Being prescribed medicines. This may be needed if your symptoms interfere with your daily life.

Follow these instructions at home:

• Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your health care provider.
• Follow instructions from your health care provider about eating or drinking restrictions. You may not be able to drink alcohol if you are taking certain medicines.
• Pay attention to any changes in your symptoms.
• Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or may be pregnant.
• Educate yourself and the people around you about your condition.
• Keep all follow-up visits as told by your health care provider.

Contact a health care provider if:

• You have side effects from medicines that you are taking.
• Your symptoms suddenly change or get worse.
• You have unusual stiffness.
• You have a sudden change in mood or behavior.
• You feel hopeless or depressed.

Get help right away if:

• You have severe side effects from medicines that you are taking.
• You have difficulty breathing or talking.