A.A.
It sounds like Tourette’s syndrome, or a closely related neurologic condition. These are usually diagnosed in early childhood.
It’s a myth that all people with Tourette’s shout inappropriate words; this is a small minority of those with the disorder. Most people with Tourette’s might display eye blinking, facial movements, coughing, throat-clearing or other behaviours that often can be suppressed, at least for a short while. Most people with tics tend to get better over time, especially through adolescence.
There is a strong familial association, with a parent many times recognizing in hindsight tic behaviours.
Recognizing the condition early is important, especially to recognize this as a medical condition, so that the child is not punished.
Children who live in an understanding and supportive environment do much better than those who are treated poorly or whose condition is misunderstood. Medications are sometimes used, but most often are not necessary. The prevalence of this disorder is much higher than previously thought — as much as 20 per cent of children will have transient tics and one per cent of schoolage children will have Tourette’s. Most of these cases are mild.
Dear doctors: I have a lifelong allergy to aspirin. When I take aspirin, I get asthma (I was diagnosed in my late 20s with asthma) and severe hives. I am now in my 50s. If I were to have a heart attack, would it be advisable to take aspirin? Or would doing so put me at greater peril?
I have only ever taken acetaminophen for pain/fever since I was diagnosed.
M.B.
Aspirin intolerance and asthma definitely are linked, and sometimes also associated with nasal polyps. The asthma attacks can be severe, so you should never take aspirin or related drugs. Stick with the acetaminophen (Tylenol). Although aspirin is helpful for most people having a heart attack, the risk is too great for you.
Doctors Donohue and Roach regret that they are unable to answer individual letters, but will incorporate them in the column whenever possible. Readers may write the doctors or request an order form of available health newsletters at P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475 or email [email protected] with medical questions.
