What Part of the Brain Does Tourette's Affect?

Tourette Syndrome (TS) is no respecter of persons, as it relates to age, race or ethnic groups. However, genetics play a part in the development of TS, and men are more likely to be affected than women. It is estimated by the Tourette Syndrome Association (TSA) that nearly 200,000 people in the United States alone have been diagnosed with TS. With no known cause, TS is described as a neurological disorder stemming from the central area of the brain. Medications are available as prescribed by a health care professional if the TS symptoms are severe.

Identification

• Tourette Syndrome (TS) is identified in a person as early as age 5 through 18, and it is notable by involuntary rapid, repeated movements, such as twitches (tics) or vocal outbursts.

Factors

• The part of the brain responsible for "motor reflex loops and several forms of involuntary behavior" is the sensory neuron located in the thalamus--the area that is affected by Tourette Syndrome.

Causes

• While there is not an exact cause or developed cure for Tourette Sydrome, the Tourette Syndrome Association (TSA) indicates that current research shows TS results from abnormal activity of a brain chemical called dopamine.

Symptoms

• Generally, a facial tic--such as "rapidly blinking eyes or twitches of the mouth"--is indicative of the more common initial symptoms of TS. However, clearing the throat or repeated sniffing can also be present initially.

Effects

• People suffering with TS can have mild to severe symptoms, but the majority of people affected experience mild symptoms.