Tourette’s syndrome is a neurological disorder that effects certain brain regions (including the basal ganglia, frontal lobes, and cortex), the circuits that interconnect these regions, and the neurotransmitters (dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine) responsible for communication among nerve cells.The disorder is named for Dr. Georges Gilles de la Tourette, the neurologist who in 1885 first described the condition in an 86-year-old woman. He summarized it as a neurological disorder characterized by repetitive, stereotyped, involuntary movements and vocalizations called tics.The exact cause of Tourette’s is unknown, but it is well known that both genetic and environmental factors are involved. Genetic epidemiology studies have shown that the majority of cases of Tourette’s are inherited, although the exact mode of inheritance is not yet known as no gene has been identified. In other cases, tics are associated with disorders other than Tourette’s, a phenomenon known as tourettism, such as OCD (obsessive Compulsive Disorder) and ADHD (Attention Defeicit Hyperactive Disorder).
Signs and symptoms of Tourette syndrome typically show up between ages 2 and 12. Males are about three to four times more likely than females to develop Tourette syndrome.It involves unusual repetitive movements or unwanted sounds that can’t be controlled (tics). You may repeatedly blink your eyes, shrug your shoulders or jerk your head, or you might unintentionally blurt out offensive words.
You can live a normal life span with Tourette’s syndrome, and many people don’t need treatment when symptoms aren’t troublesome. Symptoms often lessen or become quiet and controlled after the teen years.
While there is no known cure for Tourette’s Syndrome here at COEM we treat using multiple techniques.
- Reduce the allergic load
- Look for mineral depletion
- Eradicate over growth of yeast from the body
- Look for a bacterial infection or over growth
To prepare for your appointment you will want to come off any antihistamines 48 hours before your visit, to allow for accurate allergy testing. Also make sure to bring with you copies of any recent tests and bloodwork performed, along with your new patient packet.
References
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. www.ninds.nih.gov