Tics are the main symptom of Tourette syndrome. Tics are uncontrollable twitches, movements or sounds. There are different types of tics. Simple tics can range from repetitive blinking to shrugging a shoulder to jerking an arm. Complex tics can involve multiple parts of the body at once. For example, someone that has blinking with arm jerking and head bobbing has a complex tic. The tics most often begin between 5 and 10 years of age. The type of tic and the frequency changes over time though. For some people, tics decrease entirely once they reach adulthood, but others will have them into adulthood.
People with Tourette syndrome are also more likely to have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbance (problems with sleeping). If you have tics, talk to your doctor about an evaluation for Tourette syndrome and other disorders that may be associated with it.
Other Questions About Gilles de la Tourette syndrome
- Why is Tourette syndrome caused by a mutation in the SLITKR1[I] gene?
- Who else in my family could be at risk for Tourette syndrome?
- Where do I find a doctor who specializes in Tourette syndrome?
- What symptoms do people with Tourette syndrome have?
- What support groups are there for Tourette syndrome?
