Tourette Syndrome

Q. What is Tourette syndrome?
A. The syndrome is an inherited neurological condition which starts in childhood. It affects one schoolchild in every 100 and more than 3000,000 children and adults in the UK. Key features are tics, involuntary and uncontrollable sounds and movements. Tourette syndrome is sometimes known as a multiple tic disorder or tic spectrum disorder.

In most cases Tourette's is also linked to other behaviours, most often Obsessional Compulsive Disorder and Attention Deficit Disorder. 10% of people with Tourette's may swear uncontrollably; this is called coprolalia.

For about half of the young people with Tourette's the condition continues into adulthood.

Q. Where can I find information on the syndrome?
A. Tourettes Action is the leading charity in the UK, providing services and support to people affected by Tourette syndrome.
You can contact them via their website, www.tourettes-action.org.uk or
Email: help@tourettes-action.org.uk
Telephone: 0845 458 12 52