I was diagnosed with Tourette's Syndrome at the young age of eight. It started with continuous blinking of my eyes and progressed to the shaking of my head. My mother consulted my pediatrician's advice who soon referred me to an amazing pediatric neurologist. Although there is not an actual blood test to confirm the diagnosis of Tourette's Syndrome, many neurological tests were performed on me. One in particular was called an EEG. This test consists of monitoring brain wave consistency patterns. A lot of observation was documented by my neurologist and in result the diagnosis was confirmed.
Tourette's Syndrome is a chemical imbalance of the central nervous system which causes involuntary movements. These movements are commonly called "tics." There are various degrees of the severity of this condition. Some individuals may have a mild case where as for others it might be more severe. The two types of "tics" associated with Tourette's consist of motor tics and verbal tics. Motor tics are strictly a physical behavior and verbal tics have a vocal tendency. An example of a motor tic is involuntary twitching of a body part. Examples of verbal tics include making vocal noises, shouting and in rare cases one may yell out swear words. Whether mildly or severely, motor and verbal tics definitely "wax and wane." To define this term is tics are always changing. Tics will rotate on and off as new tics may develop, and some days will be better than other days with the severity of the tics.
Stress plays the biggest factor when coping with Tourette's Syndrom. Stress exacerbates the condition and the tics will flare up as a result.
Growing up with Tourette's Syndrome was difficult as most people are uneducated about this condition and are easily influenced by the false information presented by the media. Children can be cruel as they do not understand the impact they have on their peers that have Tourrette's Syndrome. I was teased greatly by my peers for my motor tics were quite severe. I never did develop the verbal tics, however, my motor tics are considered severe. I do believe that by educating individuals of all ages on this condition, valuable knowledge will be gained and a clear understanding of the true meaning will prevail.
Tourette's Syndrome is more common in males than females and both parents must carry the gene.
In some incidences individuals may outgrow some of their tics by their mid twenties.
Tourette's Syndrome is not a life threatening condition at all and can be controlled my medications. These medicines will not take the tics away completely but will make them more manageable. Getting involved in a hobby of one's interest is a great way to focus. By focusing on something enjoyable to you will take your mind off the tics for the time being and you will find that they will substantially subside. There are well known surgeons with Tourette's Syndrome and while they are performing surgery they never demonstrate a single tic. They are so focused on their true love and dedication of their profession that their mind is pre-occupied. This proves that you can do anything you set your mind to!
My amazing mom has been there with me through it all. She has read all of the books ever written on Tourette's Syndrom and has supported me and guided me with her unconditional love. My mom is my one true inspiration and I love her more than anything.
I am 26 years old now and although I have not outgrown any of my tics at this point, it doesn't stop me from living. I can do anything I set my mind to and I believe in myself to the best of my ability. Life is what we make of it and manifesting our goals and dreams is what life is all about. My message to individuals with Tourette's Syndrome is to never give up, hold your head high and reach for the sky. Educating people along the way will broaden the acceptance of individuals living with this condition. You are a success and when you are in doubt, please think me and together we can get through anything.
