What is Tourette’s Syndrome?
Tourette’s Syndrome is a debilitating neurological disorder that emerges in young children and affects the individual throughout their whole life. The disorder involves involuntary movements and vocalizations known as “Tics”. This can also be defined as “Chronic Motor Tic Disorder.” Some are lucky enough to become tic-free after adolescence, some of the not so lucky ones continue with persistent tics into adulthood. Tourette’s can affect all races or ethnic groups; however, it is found 3 to 4 times more commonly in young males than females. The cause of this disorder is unknown and is assumed to be a complex interaction between genes and the individual.
How are the individuals affected?
- Motor and Vocal Tics
The tics have the ability to change based on specific internal and external factors, such as illness, stress, anxiety, too much excitement, and fatigue.
- Not just medically, but socially
People with this disorder often have issues associated with bullying, poor academic performance in childhood and adolescence. It can also lead to social isolation and anxieties resulting in unemployment.
- Comorbid conditions often are ADHD and OCD. Both conditions have studies showing the potential benefits of CBD oil.
Is There A Cure?
No, there isn't a current cure for Tourette’s. The medications that are currently treating Tourette’s may suppress some involuntary movement, unfortunately they are also associated with severe adverse side effects such as weight gain and high cholesterol. There are some alternative routes such as deep brain stimulation, which is brain surgery that can be very expensive and not guaranteed.
How Can CBD help with Tourette’s?
Many can come to terms with the tics. It is the side effects of Tourette’s that can really potentially be aided by CBD. The common side effects of Tourette’s have already been researched and studies show the benefits of CBD. As you can imagine, your body doing anything involuntary can’t be pleasant. Often, individuals dealing with this syndrome deal with severe anxiety, OCD, as well as depression. The constant daily struggle can take a lot out of a person. Chronic fatigue and pain can occur as well.
The Studies
There are several studies that suggest potential therapeutic relief of Tourette’s with the use of CBD as well as other cannabinoids. The studies vary but the general outcomes have been a reduction of tics and reduction of behavioral issues in the people with Tourette’s syndrome. Want to see the research for yourself? Check out this link for the studies on Cannabinoids and Tourette’s Syndrome.
There needs to be more research done on the effects of Cannabis and CBD on an individual with Tourette’s Syndrome. Hopefully these studies will be done sooner, so those who need it can potentially find the results they are looking for. Always talk to a medical professional before starting or stopping any health supplement. Though cannabinoids have been studied for their benefits, results vary from person to person and you should keep in consistent contact with your Doctor.
