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The main symptom of Tourette syndrome is tics. Tics can involve repetitive sounds (vocal tics) or movements (motor tics) you do not choose to make and cannot control.
Tics involving sounds may include:
Tics involving movement may include:
Tics can be triggered by different things including stress, excitement or tiredness.
Symptoms of Tourette syndrome usually start around the age of 6 and can get more noticeable around age 10.
Tourette syndrome is more common in boys than girls.
Lots of children have tics at some point, this does not always mean they have Tourette syndrome.
People with Tourette syndrome often have other conditions, such as OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder) or ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder).
A GP may think you or your child have Tourette syndrome if your tics started before the age of 18, they have been happening for 1 year or more and involve both sounds and movements.
The GP may ask:
The GP may refer you or your child to a specialist, such as a brain and nerve specialist (neurologist) or a children's doctor (paediatrician) for an assessment.
The specialist may use tests, such as an EEG, MRI scan, or blood test, to check if your symptoms are caused by Tourette syndrome or another condition.
Tourette syndrome cannot be cured. But if the tics are causing problems for you or your child, treatment may be offered to help manage them.
Treatment may include:
The type of medicine you or your child may be offered also depends on if you also have ADHD or OCD.
Medicines for Tourette syndrome can cause side effects. Your doctor should discuss these with you.
Learning about Tourette syndrome can help you understand it and find ways to manage the tics.
There are some things you can do to help you or your child with symptoms of Tourette syndrome.
have a consistent daily routine with lots of physical activity
have a calm, regular bedtime or sleep routine – avoid using mobile phones and other electronic devices before bed
avoid stressful situations as much as possible, as stress can make tics worse
think about telling their school if your child is diagnosed with Tourette syndrome, so they're aware and can offer support
Some people use complementary treatments, including herbs and supplements, however there is little evidence that they help with symptoms of Tourette syndrome.
It's not known what causes Tourette syndrome.
You're more likely to have it if your mother or father has it.
As well as support from your doctor or specialist, you may find online or face-to-face support groups helpful if you or your child have Tourette syndrome.
Information and support for anyone affected by Tourette syndrome.
