Tourette Syndrome

The St George’s Tic Disorder Clinic is one of the largest in the country and the only one that sees both children and adults. We offer both diagnosis and treatment.

Tourette Syndrome is a neurological condition that causes a combination of involuntary vocal noises and movements called tics. It usually starts in childhood and improves in adolescence, but unfortunately not in every case. It can range from mild to very severe. Simple tics are quite common in children and often resolve without any treatment.

Patients attending the clinic will have a full assessment of the tics and associated developmental issues. Patients with Tourette Syndrome commonly have other conditions, like obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).  Diagnosing and treating these conditions can be as important as treating the tics.

Most patients do not require any special tests or investigations as the diagnosis is made from hearing about the symptoms from the individual and family, and any necessary physical examination.

If the patient and doctors feel the tics require treatment, this may be with medications or a recommendation for behavioural therapy.

Patients may be asked by their clinical team if they would like to take part in research studies.