Does anyone here have Tourettes Syndrome? How do you cope and have you found something that really helps that you can share with others here?

@Sidewinder That is really odd. I'm sure it's a nightmare to live with.

@LadyGrace I don't doubt that, but just because something is odd, doesn't always make it untrue.

@Sidewinder oh heavens no. I believe what you wrote. Why wouldn't I? I'm just saying his condition is odd that it doesn't bother him while he's teaching but only after. That's all I meant.

@Cigarguy101 I just want to see you get better and have a better quality life, so bad. You shouldn't have to suffer with this and do you know some actually have an operation. You might check with your doctor about this. If you're on Medicare or Medicaid you should be able to have that operation. At no cost to you. It wouldn't hurt to check it out.

@Cigarguy101 It wouldn't hurt to check this out either. I believe God will make a way for you.

For some individuals with severe, medically refractory Tourette syndrome, surgery, specifically deep brain stimulation (DBS), can be an effective treatment to reduce tics. While not a cure, DBS has shown promise in significantly decreasing motor tics and vocal outbursts in individuals with severe symptoms.

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) for Tourette Syndrome:
What it is:
DBS involves implanting electrodes in specific areas of the brain, like the thalamus, and using them to send electrical impulses that can block the abnormal nerve signals causing tics.

How it helps:
By modulating brain activity, DBS can reduce the frequency and severity of tics, offering a significant improvement in quality of life.

Effectiveness:
Studies and case reports have shown DBS to be effective in reducing tics, with some individuals experiencing a reduction of up to 80%.

Limitations:
DBS is not a cure and may not be suitable for all individuals with Tourette syndrome. It is generally considered for those whose symptoms are not adequately controlled by medications or other therapies.

Safety and Aftercare:
While DBS is generally safe, there are potential risks, including infection, bleeding, and nerve damage. After surgery, patients need ongoing monitoring and adjustments to the stimulator settings to optimize its effectiveness.

Important Considerations:
Not a first-line treatment:
DBS is typically reserved for individuals with severe, medically refractory Tourette syndrome, meaning their symptoms have not been adequately controlled with conventional treatments like medications or behavioral therapies.

Individualized approach:
The suitability of DBS and the specific brain target for stimulation are determined on a case-by-case basis by a team of experts, including neurosurgeons and neurologists.

Ongoing research:
Research into DBS for Tourette syndrome is ongoing, with studies exploring different targets and techniques to optimize its effectiveness and minimize potential risks.