Tourette's syndrome is a disorder that causes involuntary behaviors called tics. Tics can be brief, repetitive, simple or complex movements and vocalizations for which people have very little control. For instance, these individuals may repeatedly stamp their feet, blink their eyes, shrug their shoulders, repeat others or cough or sniff continuously. Some may even shout obscenities. With great effort, some of these behaviors may be suppressed for a period of time, but eventually they will need to be expressed. The symptoms usually begin in childhood and are often outgrown by adolescence. The condition is more common in males.

Treatment

Most people with Tourette's syndrome don't require medications. However, if symptoms interfere with their ability to function, there are several medications that may help control symptoms.