Other Tourette Syndrome Symptoms
Other symptoms may include behavioral problems, such as:
- Inattention
- Hyperactivity and impulsivity (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder -- ADHD)
- Problems with reading, writing, and arithmetic.
Obsessive-compulsive symptoms, such as intrusive thoughts or worries and repetitive behaviors, are also common symptoms of
Tourette syndrome. For example, worries about dirt and germs may be associated with repetitive handwashing, and concerns about bad things happening may be associated with ritualistic behaviors, such as counting, repeating, or ordering and arranging.
People with symptoms of Tourette syndrome have also reported problems with
depression or
anxiety disorders, as well as other difficulties with living, which may or may not be directly related to Tourette syndrome.
Course of Tourette Syndrome Symptoms
Tics come and go over time, varying in type, frequency, location, and severity. These first Tourette syndrome symptoms usually occur in the head and neck area, and may progress to include muscles of the trunk and extremities. Motor tics generally precede the development of vocal tics, and simple tics often precede complex tics.
Most patients experience peak tic severity before the mid-teen years, with improvement for the majority of patients in the late teen years and early adulthood. Approximately 10 percent of those affected have a progressive or disabling course that lasts into adulthood.
Given the range of potential symptoms, people with Tourette syndrome are best served by receiving medical care that provides a comprehensive treatment plan.
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