Children blink, shake their heads involuntarily, and even make sounds from time to time. These abnormal behaviors often leave parents puzzled. The elders in the family may think it is "evil" and suggest taking the child to have a scare, but in fact this may be "Tourette syndrome" at work. Tourette syndrome is a chronic neurophysiological disease whose impact on children and families cannot be ignored.
Tourette Syndrome: The mysterious link between genes and tics
When a child starts blinking frequently, shaking his head, or making sounds involuntarily, these symptoms may not be intentional behavior, but a neurological disease called Tourette syndrome. Huang Xueting, director of the Department of Pediatric Neurology at Annan Hospital, pointed out that Tourette syndrome is characterized by repeated involuntary movements and vocal tics, and these tics cannot be controlled. Generally speaking, these symptoms usually appear when children are four to six years old, peaking in adolescence, and then some patients will gradually improve, but some people may have symptoms that continue into adulthood.
The cause of Tourette's syndrome is currently thought to be genetic. Pan Junshen, deputy director of Rongxin Clinic, said that the clinical diagnostic criteria for Tourette syndrome are multiple involuntary movements accompanied by at least one involuntary sound before the age of 18, and these symptoms need to last for more than one year.
Recognizing the Key Signs of Tourette Syndrome
Dr. Huang Xueting explained that the main symptoms of Tourette syndrome are divided into two categories: action tics and vocal tics. Action tics include blinking, wrinkled nose, grimacing, shrugging, etc. Vocal tics include coughing, clearing the throat, sudden changes in volume, etc. These symptoms often change over time. You may blink frequently at a certain time, and then switch to clearing your throat. Symptoms are unpredictable and reoccurring, often leading parents to mistake them for other diseases, such as conjunctivitis, allergic rhinitis, etc. However, the symptoms do not improve after corresponding treatment.
Another typical feature is that symptoms of Tourette syndrome usually disappear when the child is asleep and only appear when the child is awake. Nervousness and anxiety can aggravate tics, so reducing stress is also an important part of reducing symptoms.
The symptoms of Tourette syndrome are not fixed and are often related to emotional fluctuations, stress, and environment. Early diagnosis by a physician is recommended." (Image / Courtesy of Heho)
Change living habits to help children get rid of Tourette syndrome
Regarding Tourette syndrome, Huang Xueting suggested that parents help their children develop good living habits to effectively reduce the number of attacks. Here are a few key ways to improve:
- Regular work and rest and balanced diet
A normal routine and a balanced diet are crucial to improving Tourette syndrome. Allowing children to maintain adequate sleep and reduce staying up late and irregular living conditions will help reduce the number of tics. In addition, the diet should avoid excessive intake of processed foods and beverages and foods containing caffeine, such as chocolate, cola, etc. These foods may aggravate nerve excitement and increase the possibility of attacks. - Getting plenty of exercise can help reduce symptoms
Research shows that plenty of exercise can also have a significant effect on reducing the symptoms of Tourette syndrome. Exercise can not only promote blood circulation and enhance physical fitness, but also effectively reduce stress and anxiety, thereby reducing the occurrence of tics. Allowing children to engage in appropriate exercise every day, such as running, swimming, etc., can help them maintain physical and mental stability. - Reduce stress and create a comfortable environment
Because stress and anxiety can worsen symptoms, parents should try to reduce stress in their children's lives and create a comfortable and supportive home environment. Avoid excessive demands or forcing children to change their behavior to avoid increasing psychological burden. Instead, provide more encouragement and support, and accompany your child to face the challenges of Tourette Syndrome.
Correct understanding and positive response are the key
Many parents tend to panic the first time their child makes involuntary movements, but it is important to understand that Tourette syndrome is not a deliberate behavior on the part of the child, nor is it an incurable disease. Through a regular life, proper diet and exercise, as well as the patience and support of parents, many children's symptoms can be significantly improved.
If a child still has frequent tic symptoms after the age of six, it is recommended that parents seek medical advice as early as possible and work with the doctor to develop an appropriate treatment plan. Tourette syndrome is not an insurmountable obstacle, and with the right approach, children can live normal and fulfilling lives.
The article comes from the source: Mom and Baby
