Tourette’s Syndrome Support
What is Tourette’s Syndrome ?
Tourette’s syndrome is a condition which causes the person to make sounds or movements involuntarily, these are called tics.
These symptoms tend to start in childhood, they can improve over a number of years and in some cases, completely go away.
Symptoms of Tourette’s Syndrome:
- Motor tics: Involuntary movements such as blinking, head jerking, or shoulder shrugging.
- Vocal tics: Involuntary sounds like grunting, throat clearing, or repeating words.
- Tics may vary in frequency and severity.
- Tics may worsen with stress and improve with relaxation.
Getting a Diagnosis
Getting diagnosed with Tourette’s syndrome typically involves a referral from a GP to a neurologist or specialist in movement disorders. Diagnosis is based on observing motor and vocal tics for at least a year, with symptoms usually starting in childhood. There are no specific tests, but assessments may include medical history, ruling out other conditions, and psychological evaluations. Support and treatment options, such as therapy or medication, can be discussed after diagnosis.
