Tourette Syndrome and ADHD – Comparing The Similarities

Research tells us that there is a strong link between ADHD and Tourette syndrome (TS). In fact, according to the American Medical Association approximately half 50 of youth with Tourette have ADHD.

Note: Other organization have this number much higher with a few estimates of combined Tourette and ADHD being in the range of nine out of every ten.

Tourette is an inherited disorder characterized by involuntary motor movements (tics) in combination with uncontrollable vocalizations. Both OCD and ADHD are linked to Tourette syndrome.

ADHD has a genetic component as well whose main symptoms are inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity/restless. It is not uncommon for those with ADHD to experience tics and trouble self-regulating vocalizations.

According to research conducted by the National Institute of Mental Health co-occurring ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) may be the root of attention problems in children with Tourette syndrome. The findings also lend credence to the belief that children with TS develop different patterns of brain activity in order to perform at the same level as children without TS.

Now let’s take this information and build on it with the help of a research study conducted by Denis Sukhodolsky, Ph.D., of the Yale Child Study Center, and colleagues. This study consisted of 236 children, of which: Read the rest of this entry »

Understanding The Genetic Basis Of Tourettes

Did you know that Tourettes Sydrome (also known as TS) effects over 200,000 Americans in our great nation? Symptoms usually commence in childhood and thankfully, are not degenerative in nature. Pharmacological medications have evolved that help limit or even entirely suppress symptoms thanks to new technological advances. TS symptoms may decrease or diminish during sleep, but rarely completely go away which can make sleeping difficult at times.

The newest forms of treatment methods include looking into the genetic basis for Tourettes. Scientists have discovered based on twin and family studies that TS is indeed inherited. Recent research has yielded interesting findings as well. Previous information sited that those with Tourettes must only receive one of the defective genes to exhibit signs and symptoms of TS. Experts now believe that environmental factors and minor chromosomal differences result in the development of full-blown or even mild cases of Tourettes Syndrome. Some individuals may be carriers for TS, but not develop the condition at all based on complex genetic combinations. Read the rest of this entry »

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Tourette’s Syndrome Treatment

Tourette syndrome, or more simply Tourette’s, is a brain disorder that involves multiple physical and verbal tics. The severity of an individual with Tourette’s tics can vary considerably. It is believed that both genetic and environmental factors are involved in causing the disorder. Individuals with Tourette’s have a variety of different treatment options.

There is no cure for Tourette syndrome. The goal for treatment of the disorder is to help the individual manage the condition. The majority of people with Tourette’s have a mild form of the disorder and do not need medication. For many, education and psychobehavioral therapy are sufficient to help them manage the disorder.

In more severe cases, medications may be prescribed. However, there is no medication on the market that has been invented specifically for treating Tourette’s. Clonidine, or the clonidine patch is typically one of the first prescribed mediations for a patient with Tourette’s. It has historically been prescribed as anti-hypertensive and has become more accepted in treating insomnia. Read the rest of this entry »

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