Tourette’s syndrome is a nervous system disorder characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements and noises (tics). The cause of the condition is unknown, although it often runs in families, so genetic factors may be involved. Symptoms typically begin between the ages of about 7 and 12.
They include physical tics, such as facial twitches, blinking, mouth movements, and head and foot movements; and vocal tics, such as coughing, throat clearing, snorting, and grunting.
In some cases, the person may repeatedly utter obscenities, copy what other people say or do, say the same thing repeatedly, or make complex physical movements (such as jumping or hitting themselves or others).
Treatment is usually with psychotherapy. Medication to control the tics may also be used.
For most people, the condition is lifelong, although the symptoms tend to become less severe with age and may eventually disappear completely.

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