Dealing With Tourette Syndrome
The goals of treating Tourette Syndrome should not be to completely eliminate all the tics and other symptoms that a patient has, but to relieve tic-related discomfort or embarrassment and to achieve a control of Tourette Syndrome symptoms that allows the patient to function as normally as possible. Another goal is to find personal well being and inner peace with the disorder.
Tourette Syndrome Tics only require treatment when they interfere with the functioning of the patient.
Most persons with TS do not require medication for their tics. Some patients with comorbid disorders will require medication, however sometimes the medication can cause more trouble than the tics. (One study showed that quality of life was most strongly influenced by comorbid disorders, not tics.) The current treatments available do not cure Tourette Syndrome, nevertheless they can suppress tics and make life more manageable.
Mild Tourette symptoms do not usually require medication for treatment. Intervention in mild symptoms if needed may only require some basic understanding.
Moderate and severe symptoms are more likely to be treated with medication if needed and also be supported by better education of patients, school personnel and parents, and initiation of supportive counseling and/or behavior therapy.
Comorbid conditions if present in Tourette cases should be individually assessed and treated.
When you begin treatment for Tourette Syndrome if your case requires it, you will have choices to make which can sometimes seem overwhelming. You may want the latest and most successful treatment approaches. Many doctors and clinicians have multiple certifications and some have pioneered new treatment approaches. Regardless of what type of treatments available; conventional, alternative, progressive, or numinous, you must decide what Tourette Syndrome treatment is best for you.