Are Uncontrolled Spasms And Body Jerks Normal When Diagnosed With Tourette Syndrome?

Posted on Tue, 3 Mar 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 3 Mar 2015 Answered on

Fri, 20 Mar 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I know someone who has had Tourette's since he was 7 years old. and now has been told he may have "vertical" Tourette's, at the age of 62. His is the sort where he had whole body jerks, and at the time I lived with him, had unknown, uncontrolled spasms where he would swing his arm out as though to hit someone, usually while sleeping. Also would appear to lose "consciousness" and slip down in the tub. He's on 4 different meds, but worries he has worst ones either while driving < he will get off road > or in public, which he blames on anxiety, that it will occur ? Is there an answer I can assist him with ? I appreciate any advise you can provide.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
It could occur.

Detailed Answer:
Hi, I have gone through your question and understand your concerns.

Tourette syndrome usually starts at childhood and fades during adult life.

In first stages it ( or its symptoms ) can be controlled by will, but not completely.

Reccurence of tics in late adulthood is rare but happens.

Best thing to do besides drug treatment is to create a relaxing atmosphere, minimizing stress to affected person.

You can try to explain that if tics happen during driving, it could be dangerous.

A promising treatment for Tourette's is deep brain stimulation.

Hope this answers your question. If you have additional questions or follow up questions then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your questions.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D