Tourette Syndrome (TS) Learning About the Condition

There are tics that some people have that may go away in less than a year which do not affect their life. While others have tics that last more than a year which may be called tic disorder. In some cases, the longer they last the more of a chance of that person having Tourette Syndrome. Some people may have mild tics while others have more severe ones. Tics in teens are more common than most people actually think. This condition was first described by a Dr. in French in 1885 then named after him, "Dr. Georges Gilles de la Tourette."

These tics seem to be without knowledge while making sounds or movements that are sudden and repetitive. The movements are motor tics such as eyes blinking or vocal tics such as throat clearing frequently.

Even though, the exact cause of the condition is unknown researchers believe that it is connected with the nerves. Therefore Tourette Syndrome (TS) is neurological disorder which is a problem that occurs with how the nerves interact in the brain.

It is believed that a role in TS may be played by the neurotransmitters in the brain. They carry signals from the nerves to one cell than another. This may occur if there is a disturbance in the balance.

TS can not be caught because it is not contagious. It is suggested that it may have happened while the in the womb during the development period. Also, Tourette Syndrome may be genetic or inherited meaning passed from one parent to a child.

Even though it may be genetic or inherited which means a tendency to develop something it does not mean they will. As the study continues on TS the new information may lead to what causes a person have the condition.

The condition is known more in boys than girls of all races and backgrounds. The first symptoms (motor and vocal tics) of TS are noticed as a young child or teenager. However the tics are the main symptoms. The motor tics can be from the eye blinking, to foot stomping, to jerking of the head.

Verbal tics are from making clicking sounds, to throat clearing, to shouting or sniffing. In some people with rare cases, they may do things such as bang their heads. This is also a tic and often they harm themselves when this occurs.

The tics may happen more often, longer and severe if the person becomes under stress. In some cases the kind of tic may even change completely.

It is sometimes harder for teens with TS when talking to someone or in class. It is hard to concentrate if they are trying to control or suppress the tic. Also, it is common with people with TS to have other learning disabilities.

To be diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome a person should be not be without a tic no longer than 3 months. They do not have to occur everyday they can even happen on and off. The person will be referred to neurologist. He will probably have them keep a record of the tics, how often and what kind.

Several test may be taken such as a MRI, EEG or a CT scan. Sometimes to rule out other conditions similar to TS.

There is no cure for this condition. The treatment may vary according to the kind of tics the person is having. There are medication to help control the severity of the tics. As becoming into adulthood the tics may disappear or get milder.