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Tourette Help
Q: Do TS sufferers have other associated behaviors in addition to the tics?

A: The frequency of co-occurrence is a much debated subject, but recent studies show the following TS involvement's:
Combination of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and or Obsessive Compulsive Behavior (OCB) reported in up to 60% of the clinical TS population. Obsessions which consist of repetitive, unwanted or bothersome intrusive thoughts.
Compulsive behaviors, repetitive, often ritualistic actions in which the person feels that something must be done over and over, often in a very specific manner. Examples include touching an object with one hand after touching it with the other hand to" even things up", or repeatedly checking to see that the burner on the stove is turned off. Children sometimes urge parents to repeat a sentence numerous times until it "sounds just right".

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD or ADHD with or without hyperactivity). Approximately 50% of clinical TS sufferers will have an involvement with ADD or ADHD. Signs of hyperactivity may appear before the first symptoms of TS. Indications of ADHD may include: difficulty in concentrating, failing to finish what is started, not seeming to listen, being easily distracted, often acting before thinking, easily overwhelmed and frustrated, shifting constantly from one activity to another, needing a great deal of supervision, and general fidgeting. Adults may exhibit signs of ADHD such as overly impulsive behavior, concentration difficulties, and the need to be in constant motion. ADD without hyperactivity includes all the above symptoms except for the high degree of activity.

Learning Disabilities such as dyslexia, reading, writing, and perceptual difficulties, problems with visual/motor integration occur in approximately 15% of TS individuals seen in clinical settings.

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