**Did you know that people with Tourette’s disorder sometimes blurt out rude words, insult other people, or make rude movements or gestures? **
They are not to be faulted for these noises and motions since they are beyond their control. When parents, classmates, or instructors punish their children for having tics, they are just doing more harm than good since it lowers their self-esteem and elevates their anxiety.
For a better understanding, let’s examine the general function or difficulties of children with TS.
What Is Tourette Syndrome (TS)?
Tourette syndrome is a childhood-onset movement disease. It produces repetitive twitches, motions, or noises that are difficult or impossible to control. These are known as tics. Multiple tics may occur simultaneously, but they may not necessarily occur together.
There is a common misconception that people with Tourette syndrome make crude jokes or use vulgarity in the media. However, only a tiny percentage of Tourette’s syndrome patients have this symptom.
Risk Factors for Tourette Syndrome
- TS often develops in children between the ages of 5 and 10
- TS is more prevalent in males than females
- Tourette’s syndrome seems to run in families, so genetics may play a role
Symptoms of Tourette Syndrome
- Primary symptom: tics, fast, repetitive motions or noises that occur for no apparent reason
- Tics may occur in different parts of the body
- Vocal tics may also be present
- Many children and adolescents with TS often have attention challenges and some also struggle academically
Diagnosis of Tourette Syndrome
- No laboratory test for TS diagnosis
- Physician may conduct an examination or administer tests to rule out alternative causes of the symptoms
- Criteria for someone to be classified as having TS include having both motor and verbal tics that occur often or sometimes for at least one year
Treatment of Tourette Syndrome
- No known cure for TS
- Medications can be helpful in managing the symptoms, but adverse effects may be more severe than underlying symptoms
- Behavior therapy may also be beneficial
- Most kids with TS can do well at home and in a normal classroom
- If they have underlying emotional or learning challenges, they may need special education, counseling, and/or medication
Complications of Tourette Syndrome
- TS may influence every aspect of an individual’s life
- Numerous children with TS also have additional problems such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and other behavioral or cognitive issues
When to See a Doctor
- Consult a physician if you suspect your child has TS or tics
Being Diagnosed With Tourette Syndrome
Tourette syndrome may influence every aspect of an individual’s life. Included in this are their health, education, work, and relationships. Additionally, it affects their physical, mental, and emotional health.
Numerous children with Tourette syndrome also have additional problems. These consist of-
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Disorder of attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD)
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (thoughts or behaviors that are repeated over and over)
- Other behavioral or cognitive issues
Your therapist can help you determine whether your kid suffers from these other problems.
Tourette syndrome should be diagnosed as soon as possible. This will help ensure that your kid receives the appropriate therapy and support to lead productive and healthy lives.
Tips for Parents
- Parents of children with TS should educate themselves about the condition
- Seek support from experts
- Provide support and encouragement to their children
- Work with their child’s physician to develop a treatment plan that addresses their child’s specific needs
- Help their child cope with any emotional or social difficulties they may face due to the condition.
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