Tourette's syndrome
"The urge to perform the tic is overwhelming"
Joannahas had tics all her life and was diagnosed with Tourette's syndrome in her 30s. She describes what it is like living with the syndrome, the effectsmedication had on her and how shecan now manage without medication.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 29 Nov 2016
Introduction
Tourette's syndrome is a neurological condition, characterised by a combination of involuntary noises and movements called tics.
Symptoms of Tourette's syndrome
If your child has tics, it does not necessarily mean that they have Tourettes syndrome.
Causes of Tourette's syndrome
The cause of Tourettes syndrome is unknown. However, it is thought to be linked to problems with an area of the brain known as the basal ganglia.
Diagnosing Tourette's syndrome
In diagnosing Tourettes syndrome, the first stage is to rule out other possible causes of your childs symptoms.
Treating Tourette's syndrome
Behavioural therapy and medication are the main treatments for Tourette's syndrome. Rarely, in severe cases, surgery or deep brain stimulation may be used.
Problems associated with Tourette's syndrome
Tourette's syndrome is often associated with psychological and behavioural problems, as well as learning difficulties.
"The urge to perform the tic is overwhelming"
Joanna was diagnosed with Tourette's syndrome in her 30s, and has had tics all her life. She describes what effects different medications had on her.
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