contribute to the development of tics and their combination as well as ICD symptoms (Shimberg, 1995,p.111). This research may prove family history of tics, OCD, ADHD, and rheumatic fever. As presently known, environmental factors of themselves, do not cause TS. Many TS symptoms resemble those of allergies, such as blinking, sniffing, throat clearing, and coughing. Treatment for allergies may help reduce and relieve some of the symptoms of TS.At the present time there is no cure for Tourette syndrome. However, there are many different treatments available, both medical and non-medical, that have been proven effective in treating, and reducing the severity and frequency of the tics in some people, some of the time. Nothing works all of the time. The uniqueness of every person’s symptoms makes TS impossible to treat in a one for all type of order. There are vast differences in the type, severity, and frequency of the symptoms expressed, from extremely mild tics to disabling, chronic illness. 70% of people with TS have mild symptoms and do not require medical attention. The most common form of treatment for TS is pharmacotherapy, or treatment with drugs. The most frequently prescribed drugs are Haldol, and Clonidine. There are immense side effects that go along with these medications. They range from fatigue and weight gain to sedation and irritability. Other side effects include personality changes, depression, dry mouth dizziness, and in some rare cases, Tardive Dyskinsia, a condition that involves involuntary chewing like motions and tongue thrusts. (Shimberg,1995,p.57)There are also several alternative therapies, such as hypnosis, and biofeedback. In some cases, these therapies may lessen the side effects of medications. Hypnosis is proven to reduce stress and promote relaxation, as does biofeedback. These therapies may also reduce the frequency and severity of tics. It also appears that when some children’s a...
