TOURETTE SYNDROME TREATMENTourette Syndrome |
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A majority of patients with Tourette Syndrome do not
need to take drugs, as their tics do not interfere much with their
lives, and they develop normally. In serious cases, a drug used to
treat severe mental illness, such as haloperidol (Haldol) or
pimozide (Orap), is given, starting with a very low dose and
increasing until the tics respond without side effects occurring.
Researchers are developing new antipsychotic drugs that may be
targeted to particular symptoms of Tourette Syndrome. Clonidine, a drug used to
treat high blood pressure, works well against motor tics but may not
always relieve vocal tics. Older children tend to do well with this
drug, and side effects are less of a problem than with antipsychotic
drugs. Clonidine helps Tourette Syndrome children who have trouble focusing their
attention, and also makes patients less frightened about their tics.
Medications used in Tourette Syndrome should be tapered gradually to avoid
worsening of symptoms when the drug is discontinued. It may be a
good idea to simply observe a Tourette Syndrome patient for weeks or even months
before starting drug treatment. Usually, after two to three years,
Tourette Syndrome will be as severe as it is going to get. In the late teenage
years, tics often get better by themselves. A calm, reassuring
approach will help the patient and family to understand the
condition and encourage them to cooperate with treatment. Tourette Syndrome
children may do quite well in a regular classroom, but those with
severe tics should be in a setting that meets their needs, whether
this means smaller or special classes, a private place to study, or
tutoring.
Alternative treatment
Talking with a counselor or psychiatrist will not help a Tourette Syndrome patient
to suppress his tics, but it may help him learn to cope with the
disorder and deal with social problems. Like any chronic childhood
illness, Tourette Syndrome places great strain on the family. Family therapy will
clarify what effects the Tourette Syndrome child is having on the family's life,
and help the parents and siblings to provide special help when
needed, without being overly protective. Learning to relax may mean
fewer and less severe tics. Progressive muscular relaxation is one
method, yoga another. Biofeedback is another way of relieving
stress. Homeopathic constitutional care can also help patients with
Tourette Syndrome, as can eating a healthy, well-balanced diet. |
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