Tourette Syndrome Q & A

Does Tourette syndrome cause frequent blinking and jerking of the head? 

Tourette syndrome is characterized by tics –– sudden, brief movements or sounds. Some tics are mild and difficult to spot; others are severe and noticeable. 

Tics fall into two categories: 

Simple tics 

Simple tics affect a small number of muscle groups. These tics are subtle and can be challenging to identify. 

Complex tics

Complex tics affect multiple muscle groups and involve coordinated patterns or movements. 

Tics are typically worse during childhood and adolescence but tend to improve with age. 

What are the symptoms of Tourette syndrome? 

Tourette syndrome symptoms include:

• Grunting
• Coughing
• Repeating the same phrases
• Throat clearing
• Nose twitching
• Blinking
• Hopping
• Head jerking
• Shoulder shrugging

You might notice that your or your child’s symptoms are worse during times of high stress or anxiety.

How is Tourette syndrome diagnosed?

There isn’t a specific test that diagnoses Tourette syndrome. Your doctor or a specialist reviews your medical records and asks about your tics, including how often they occur, what they look or sound like, and their severity. It can help to bring recordings of previous behavior.  

Since vocal and motor tics can occur due to underlying medical issues, your doctor or specialist might refer you to a lab for blood work or a radiology facility for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). After confirming your diagnosis, Mindful TMS Neurocare Centers can provide specialized care with TMS therapy. 

How might TMS treat Tourette syndrome? 

The Mindful TMS Neurocare Centers team treats Tourette syndrome using a combination of TMS therapy, counseling, and medication when needed.

TMS therapy uses a magnetic coil to activate the specific areas of your or your child’s brain responsible for sound and movement. Targeting these areas positively affects how your brain works. It reduces the frequency of tics while improving mood and outlook.

Counseling complements TMS therapy by teaching you or your child how to monitor tics and identify urges. Since many children and adults with Tourette syndrome also suffer from anxiety or depression, it can help manage these issues as well.

How often will I need to undergo TMS therapy?

The frequency you need to undergo TMS therapy depends on several things, including the severity of your tics and their effect on your quality of life. The Mindful TMS Neurocare Centers team usually recommends 5-10 TMS sessions over several weeks. 

Call Mindful TMS Neurocare Centers to learn more about treating Tourette syndrome with TMS, or book an appointment online today.