What
many people don't know is that Howard, Everton's goalkeeper and
former Manchester United's, was diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome (TS)
at the age of 11. He has been a longtime spokesperson and supporter
for the Tourette Syndrome Association (TSA) and is very open about
his condition.
This
disorder was named for a French scientist who successfully assessed
the disorder in the late 1800s, Georges Gilles de la Tourette. It is
an inherited, neurological disorder characterized by repeated and
involuntary body movements (tics) and uncontrollable vocal sounds.
Involuntary symptoms can include eye blinking, repeated throat
clearing or sniffing, arm thrusting, kicking movements, shoulder
shrugging or jumping.
In
a minority of cases, (10 to 15 percent) the vocalizations can include
socially inappropriate words and phrases—called
coprolalia.
These outbursts are neither intentional nor purposeful.
Typically
TS symptoms emerge before the age of 18 years and the condition
occurs in all ethnic groups. Although the symptoms of TS vary from
person to person and range from very mild to severe, the majority of
cases fall into the mild category. Associated conditions can include
OCD, ADHD and learning problems
Increased
public understanding and tolerance of TS symptoms are of paramount
importance to people with this disorder.
Most
people with TS lead productive lives and participate in all
professions.
Sources:
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