Managing Tourette syndrome and other conditions

For parents who have children with Tourette syndrome, they may wonder if the symptoms their child shows are from this syndrome or other conditions.

We spoke to consultant paediatrician, Dr Inyang Takon, who clarified whether this condition can occur with other conditions, whether ADHD is related and if there is a way children with the syndrome will overcome its challenges.
 

Can Tourette syndrome occur with other conditions?

Children with Tourette Syndrome do commonly have other conditions which can sometimes cause them more discomfort than the Tics. These include ADHD, OCD and Anxiety. It is important the doctor assesses your child for these conditions.
 

Are ADHD and Tourette syndrome related?

ADHD and Tourette syndrome are separate conditions however up to 50% of children with Tourette syndrome may have ADHD. The doctors do tend to screen every child that has Tics and Tourette syndrome for ADHD
 

Children with Tics and Tourette Syndrome tend to have an urge/ sensory feeling called ‘ premonitory urges’ before they have the tics. These urges alert the child that the tic is about to occur. Lots of children try to suppress the urges so they do not have the Tic. The child can sometimes appear restless when trying to suppress the urges. It is important that the doctor differentiates the premonitory urges from the restlessness that occurs in ADHD.
 

Is there a cure for Tourette syndrome?

There is no cure for Tourette syndrome however there are effective ways of managing the tics in Tourette Syndrome. The treatments can improve the symptoms and the quality of life of the child with Tourette syndrome. The tics seen in Tourette syndrome can be managed using some structured behavioural management programmes which helps your child manage their tics better. There are also medications we can use to reduce the disruptiveness and frequency of the tics. Not all children with Tourette syndrome require treatment. Your doctor will guide you regarding the need for treatment.
 

Will a child ever grow out of Tourette syndrome?

Tics tend to start in early childhood and the symptoms tend to increase / peak at mid childhood. We do know 2/3 of children who have tics get better by the time they get to 18 however 1/3 of children continue to have tics in adulthood. Children who have Tics with other coexisting conditions such as OCD , ADHD and anxiety do tend to have their tics more likely to continue into adulthood. The important thing in management is to support the child with Tics at home and at school so they can live a normal life despite the Tics.
 

How will the child fit in at school and around other kids?

There are lots of children with Tourette Syndrome attending school daily. Teachers are usually given information on how to support the child with Tourette syndrome in the class. This may involve allowing your child some mini breaks where they can leave the class for a bit, relax, and walk around outside the class. This helps your child become more relaxed for the next lessons.
 

Children are usually empowered to provide responses about their tics if they are asked by their friends about their tics. Some children have had mini talks in the class with the support of their teacher. Encouraging your child to talk about their tics helps them become more relaxed and confident about it. We do find their friends are also supportive.
 

Tips for Parents

• Keep home environment relaxed
• Avoid asking your child to stop doing the tics- The more you talk about the tics, the more the child does the tics
• Visit useful websites such as the Tourette Syndrome Association website where you can access lots of information on Tourette syndrome and useful information for parents
• Inform your child’s school about their tics.
   

How can I get help for my child?

Developmental Paediatricians and Child Psychiatrists are experienced in managing children with Tourette syndrome. Contact me at Top doctors if you would like a consultation.
 

Visit Dr Inyang Takon’s profile today for more information on treatment and appointment availability.