Tourette syndrome is a problem with the nervous system that causes people to move or make sudden sounds, called tics, that they cannot control. For example, someone with Tourette can rub their eyes or clear their throat over and over again. Some people may say words they do not intend to say.
Treatments can control the tick, but some people do not need any treatment if the symptoms do not bother them.
causes
During his studies, Tourette was linked to various parts of the brain, including an area called the basal ganglia, which helps control body movements. Differences in this area can affect nerve cells and the substances that transmit messages between them. Researchers think that troubles in this brain network may play a role in Tourette syndrome.
Doctors do not know exactly what causes these problems in the brain, but genes probably play an important role. There is likely to be more than one cause. Boys are affected three to five times more often than girls.
symptoms
The main symptoms are tickets. Some are so light that they do not stand out. Others occur frequently and are conspicuous. Stress, joy, or being sick or tired can make them worse. The most distinctive ticks can affect the social life of individuals.
Tickets are divided into motor and vocal tics. Motor tics include cracking of the arm or head, blinking of the eyes, making a certain habit, raising the shoulders, and so on. Vocal cues include clearing the throat, coughing, cheering, sniffing, repeating what someone else is saying, and so on.
Doctors are not sure why, but about half of people with Tourette also have symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
Tourette can also cause problems with:
- anxiety
- inability to learn such as dyslexia
- obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Treatment
Many times, the symptoms are mild and do not need treatment. Otherwise, a specialist doctor can help you. Conversational and behavioral therapy is advised.
Burimet: Center for Disease Control and Prevention, WebMD
