Tourettes Syndrome
Tourettes Syndrome is an inherited neurological condition. It is a complex condition which affects more boys than girls. The main symptoms of Tourettes Syndrome are involuntary tics, sounds and movements.
Tics can occur in any part of the body. Motor tics include grimacing, eye blinking and rolling, arm and leg jerking and shoulder shrugging. Vocal tics include clearing throat, shouting out and making animal noises and/or grunting.
It is not uncommon for those with Tourette Syndrome to also have ADHD and OCD, all of which lead to anxiety issues and low self esteem. The condition generally becomes worse when the child is stressed, excited or nervous.
Tourette Syndrome is not a learning disability but it does impact upon academic progress and participation in learning. A child with Tourette Syndrome will often find it difficult to concentrate in class.
It is not unusual for children with tics to try to repress them during the school day. This can result in increased tics in the evenings and night times which can make sleep difficult.
Tourettes Action is an excellent website containing lots of great information to find out more. Please click on the link below to find out more.
