Tourette Syndrome by ccottrell

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Tourette Syndrome

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BY COLE COTTRELL

Tourette syndrome is a disorder that involves repetitive movements or unwanted sounds (tics) that can't be easily controlled. For instance, you might repeatedly blink your eyes, shrug your shoulders or blurt out unusual sounds or offensive words.
Tics typically show up between ages 2 and 15, with the average being around 6 years of age. Males are about three to four times more likely than females to develop Tourette syndrome.

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.

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While Tourette’s is inherited the tics and verbal cues are often from a nurture perspective.

Eye blinking, Touching or smelling objects, Head jerking, Repeating observed movements Shoulder shrugging, Stepping in a certain pattern, Eye darting, Obscene gesturing, Nose twitching, Bending or twisting, Mouth movements, Hopping

Grunting, Repeating one's own words or phrases, Coughing, Repeating others' words or phrases, Throat clearing, Using vulgar, obscene or swear words, Barking

Vary in type, frequency and severity Worsen if you're ill, stressed, anxious, tired or excited, Occur during sleep, Change over time Worsen in the early teenage years and improve during the transition into adulthood Before the onset of motor or vocal tics, you'll likely experience an uncomfortable bodily sensation (premonitory urge) such as an itch, a tingle or tension. Expression of the tic brings relief. With great effort, some people with Tourette syndrome can temporarily stop or hold back a tic.

Genetic studies have indicated that Tourette syndrome is inherited as a dominant gene, with about a 50% chance of parents passing the gene on to their children.

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There's no cure for Tourette syndrome. Treatment is aimed at controlling tics that interfere with everyday activities and functioning. When tics aren't severe, treatment might not be necessary.
Medications that block or lessen dopamine. Fluphenazine, haloperidol (Haldol), risperidone (Risperdal) and pimozide (Orap) can help control tics. Possible side effects include weight gain and involuntary repetitive movements. Tetrabenazine (Xenazine) might be recommended, although it may cause severe depression. Botulinum (Botox) injections. An injection into the affected muscle might help relieve a simple or vocal tic.