What is Tourette's syndrome?
A person with Tourette's syndrome has motor tics and vocal tics. Motor tics are sudden involuntary movements, and vocal tics are sudden involuntary vocal sounds or words. A person with Tourette's syndrome is unable to control the movements or vocal sounds. Tourette's syndrome usually occurs between the ages of 2 and 15 years. The cause of Tourette's syndrome is unknown.

What are the symptoms of Tourette's syndrome?
Symptoms of Tourette's syndrome include uncomfortable sensations on the skin surface, sudden brief movements, or sudden brief vocal sounds. Occasionally, complete words may be spoken. Additional symptoms include restlessness, depression, poor concentration, and anxiety.

How does the doctor treat Tourette's syndrome?
Treatment of Tourette's syndrome may include medication and mental health counseling.

People with Tourette's syndrome may also suffer from behavioral difficulties, such as:

• Depression
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
• OCD
• Essential tremor