Tourette Syndrome

Tourette Syndrome is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary, rapid, sudden movements, or vocalizations that occur repeatedly.  To diagnose this syndrome doctors look for the following symptoms:

1.     Both Multiple muscle and vocal tics

2.     Tics occur many times a day

3.     Tics can come and go in frequency, type, and location

4.     Onset before the age of 18

Some people can control the onset of their tics for up to hours at a time, but this usually leads to a stronger outburst later.

            While researchers are not entirely sure, they believe that abnormal levels of dopamine and serotonin in the brain cause this syndrome.  This syndrome is transmitted genetically to children.

Other Related Problems

1.     Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD

2.     Difficulties with Impulse Control or disinhibition

3.     Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder or OCD

4.     Learning Disabilities like Dyslexia

5.     Sleeping Disorders