Tourette Syndrome is neurological disorder. An individual with Tourette's Syndrome (TS) will have some type of quick repetitive (and often rapid) movements usually referred to as tics. Typically, the tics cannot be controlled and the individual with Tourette's will need to release them. The tics can be verbal or motor with any body part. The symptoms often vary in level of severity from a very moderate form to a very severe form. It is believe that Tourette's Syndrome may, in some case, be inherited, however, the inheritance is complex and one gene alone does not explain all cases of Tourette's Syndrome. TS may produce varying symptoms in different family members. Genetic studies indicate that a person with TS has approximately a 50% chance of passing the gene to one of their children. (National Alliance on Mental Illness)
How is Tourette Syndrome Diagnosed?
Presently, there is no medical test to diagnose Tourette's. Typically the diagnosis stems from ruling out other disorders and observing the following symptoms over time:
- motor tics
- onset of tics begins in childhood
- vocal tics
What do the tics look like?Motor tics can occur in a variety of forms which may include any of:
- twitching
- blinking
- tapping (hands, fingers or feet)
- clicking teeth
- repetitive clenching
- grimacing
- shrugging
- hopping
- constantly clearing their throat
- spitting
- grunting
- making unusual sounds
- whistling
- repeating words
It is important to record the observed behaviors over a period of time. It is not unusual for individuals with Tourette's to experience other problems like ADHD, learning problems or disabilities and obsessive compulsive disorders.
Support and Intervention
It is important to diagnose Tourette's early. Individuals will struggle with teasing and social relationships otherwise. Any type of stress, excitement and fatigue tends to make the tics worse. Complete patience and understanding is essential. Some behavior therapies can work in times of extreme stress. Medication is available if the tics interfere with day to day functioning. Never demand that the child stops, this only creates anxiety and makes the symptoms worse. These students need complete understanding and the individual peers need to be educated so that they too provide the support rather than embarassment that the child needs. A great resource to help educate the peers in the classroom is available from the Tourette's Syndrome Association as it provides a great section for classroom support and strategies.
It is important to have routines and solid structuring of the day when working with students with TS. Pay close attention to the child during unstructured times like recess and lunch hours. When giving the child tests, try and provide a quiet environment and allow additional time if necessary. Avoid stressful situations. You'll enjoy this checklist on how to create a user-friendly classroom.
In summary, remember to include success strategies in the student's IEP. Allow the child to leave the classroom if they feel the tics coming on and need to release them. Make the appropriate modifications and accommodations to ensure success. Be patient and understanding even though you'll often be inclined to say 'will you just stop'.