Understanding Tourette Syndrome
Tourette Syndrome is a disorder of the nervous system characterized by stereotyped movements, vocalizations, and repetitive involuntary actions. The condition is named for Dr. Georges Gilles de la Tourette. He was a pioneering French neurologist who described it in 1885 in an elderly French noblewoman aged 86. Early symptoms are usually noticed in childhood. The average onset of TS is between 3-9 years. Males suffer from TS three to four more than females. Despite affecting people of all races, tic symptoms are most common in early teens. TS is a chronic disorder with long-lasting symptoms. However, the majority of people who have TS experience the worst tic symptoms during their teens. Improvements are seen in late teen years and continue into adulthood.
What is Tourette Syndrome?
This is a disorder of the nervous system that starts in childhood or early adolescence. It causes uncontrollable, repeated movements and sounds. Simple or complex tics are classified. Simple motor tics involve repetitive, sudden movements with a small number of muscles. Complex motor tics involve coordinated movements that are different and distinct. Tourette syndrome is a condition that affects one child in 360 in the United States aged between 6-17.
Tourette Syndrome: Common Causes
Although the exact cause is unknown, it's believed that both environmental and genetic factors are involved. These are some possible causes.
- Genetics: Some genes can make people more susceptible to the disease.
- Unbalances in brain chemicals: Certain abnormalities may be at play.
- Brain abnormalities - Certain structural changes within the brain may be responsible for TS.
Common Treatments for Tourette Syndrome
Treatment options for Tourette Syndrome include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: CBT is a form of psychotherapy which can be used to help a patient focus on strategies that will reduce the frequency of tics.
- Medication can be helpful in controlling tics.
- Deep Brain Stimulation: The procedure involves the implanting of a battery operated device into the brain in order to provide electrical stimulation.
The effectiveness of each treatment varies depending on the individual, so it is often necessary to try several different approaches before finding one that works best.
Tourette Syndrome: Expert or professional opinions
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke reports that although TS is not curable, many people's condition improves with age. Some individuals may even become symptom free or not need any medication to suppress tics. The disorder, although chronic and lifelong in nature, is not degenerative. The life expectancy of TS patients is normal.
Prevention and Natural Remedies
Although there are no proven ways to treat or prevent Tourette Syndrome symptoms, lifestyle modifications and home remedies may help.
- Physical activity is a great way to release excess energy and reduce the number of tics.
- Tics can be managed by using stress management techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and yoga.
- Healthy eating can help manage symptoms and promote overall neurohealth.
Tourette Syndrome, a neurological disorder complex that starts in childhood. The disorder is marked by tics, which are repetitive and involuntary vocalizations. Although the cause of tics is unknown, genetics and environment are thought to be involved. There are many treatments available to treat symptoms. These include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), medication and, in certain cases, deep-brain stimulation. It is also possible to manage the symptoms by using natural remedies or lifestyle modifications. Tourette Syndrome is not curable, but many people see their symptoms improve as they age, leading them to live a more normal life.
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