OK, so you might have heard about the "cussing disease," where people swear repeatedly and without end. Maybe you've heard people refer to it as "Tourette Syndrome." Well, they're wrong.

OK, so what is Tourette Syndrome?

Tourette Syndrome is a neurological disorder in which someone has no control over various types of repetitive, sudden movements and sounds. These symptoms are referred to as "tics." The disorder is usually dealt with by medications, although they may not ease the tics completely. This disorder has been featured on many talk shows, including Maury, Sally Jessy Raphael, and Oprah. Furthermore, studies have shown that as many as 1 in 1000 people in America have some symptom of Tourette Syndrome.

Tics take on various forms. "Motor" tics are movements of the muscles and extremities or face. Rapid eye-blinking is a common motor tic. "Vocal" tics are uncontrollable utterances. such as soft blowing or clearing of the throat. Every person with Tourette Syndrome has their own set of tics, not limited to those mentioned above. Then there is the issue of "coprolalia," the uncontrollable utterances of profane or offensive words or phrases. Coprolalia affects only a small fraction of Tourette patients, less than 20%. Some people think that they are doing it on purpose. If you do, then you're wrong.

Because of these tics, patients with Tourette Syndrome often find it "hard" to be in public or social situations, where people will sometimes stare or make unfair comments in response to their tics. Tourette Syndrome usually begins in childhood, and patients are often teased or mocked on the playground. It's almost unbearable, unless the patient finds "kindred spirits" that are compassionate and understanding. It is important to note that patients with Tourette Syndrome can lead very normal lives.

Impact on education/employment

Patients with Tourette Syndrome often do not require significant modifications to the work or school environment. Sometimes it is sufficient for the patient to tell co-workers, bosses, teachers, and classmates about their disorder, and continue their work or study normally. Higher frequencies of tics may sometimes occur during certain periods, and so the patient may require special accommodations. Patients should consult with their doctor and disabled student office or personnel office regarding the possibility of special work- or school-related accommodations.

Click this to find out how one professor reacted to having me in class.

Further information on Tourette Syndrome