There is probably an imbalance in the function of brain neurotransmitters chemical messengers in the brain that send signals between nerve cells including dopamine, and probably others. Many of the drugs that reduce tics act by supressing the dopamine system. Go to our page on medication for further information. Although tics often run in families there is not a single gene that causes TS or can be tested to diagnose it.
Research in recent years has focussed on identifying many variations in genes that together increase the risk of an individual developing TS. Thousands of people with TS have contributed to this work, and the results will become more useful with even greater numbers. Identifying which genes contribute to TS should increase our understanding of how the condition develops and may ultimately lead to new treatments, but this is a long process.
Read our guide far right on genetics and TS for further information. Watch this video with Drs. Gary Heiman and Jay Tischfield at Rutgers University, who are seeking to uncover the genetic causes of TS with the hope of developing effective tailored treatments. It is likely that genetic make-up is not the only cause of TS. They may be taken orally or by injection. They can treat moderate to severe symptoms. Some slow-release neuroleptics are injected only once every 2 to 6 weeks.
Adverse effects may include drowsiness, blurred vision, dry mouth, low libido, shaking, spasms, twitches, and weight gain. Some neuroleptics have more adverse effects than others. If side effects are becoming a problem, the patients should tell their doctor. There may be other neuroleptics they could take.
Therapy aims to treat symptoms by reversing habits. The therapist helps the patient monitor the pattern and frequency of their tics. Any sensations that are triggering the tics are also identified. Once the patient is aware of the tic, they can develop an alternative and less noticeable way of relieving the uncomfortable sensations that are stirring. This is called a competing response.
For example, if an unpleasant sensation in the throat makes the person feel the need to grunt or clear their throat, they can learn to relieve the sensation by taking a series of deep breaths instead. Habit reversal therapy often includes relaxation therapy. Stress or anxiety may make tics more severe and more frequent.
Deep breathing and visualization may help relieve anxiety, often resulting in fewer and less severe tics. Acupuncture and hypnosis have been proposed as possible therapies. A number of dietary factors have been suggested , such as a higher intake of vitamin B or vitamin D , but these have not been supported by research.
However, exercise and a healthful diet can help reduce stress and enhance a sense of wellbeing, which may help reduce the severity and frequency of tics. Surgery is usually only considered for adult patients with severe symptoms who have not responded well to other treatments. Scientists are studying other possible causes and environmental risk factors that might contribute to TS. Some studies have shown that the following factors might be associated with TS, but additional research is needed to better understand these associations: 2, 3.
Skip directly to site content Skip directly to page options Skip directly to A-Z link. Tourette Syndrome TS. Section Navigation. Tourette syndrome is not a psychological condition, but doctors sometimes refer teens to a psychologist or psychiatrist. Seeing a therapist won't stop their tics , but it can help to talk to someone about their problems, cope with stress better, and learn relaxation techniques. Many people don't understand what Tourette syndrome is or what causes it, so they might not know what to make of someone who has TS.
And if people stare, it can feel embarrassing or frustrating. People with TS might have to explain their condition a lot or have to deal with people thinking they're strange. Although it's not easy to have Tourette syndrome, there's good news — the tics usually get milder or go away during adulthood. In the meantime, it can help to focus on something else. Each person with Tourette syndrome will cope differently with its physical, emotional, and social challenges.
TS doesn't usually restrict activities, so people who have it can enjoy themselves and pursue their dreams and goals just as their friends do. Reviewed by: Shirin Hasan, MD. Larger text size Large text size Regular text size. What Is Tourette Syndrome? And, Tourette syndrome is not contagious.
You can't catch it from someone who has it. What Are the Signs and Symptoms? Dealing With Tourette Syndrome Many people don't understand what Tourette syndrome is or what causes it, so they might not know what to make of someone who has TS.
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