The exact cause of Tourette syndrome isn't known. It's a complex disorder likely caused by a combination of inherited (genetic) and environmental factors. Chemicals in the brain that transmit nerve impulses (neurotransmitters), including dopamine and serotonin, might play a role.

Can you develop turrets?

Tourette syndrome is a genetic disorder, which means it's the result of a change in genes that's either inherited (passed on from parent to child) or happens during development in the womb. As with other genetic disorders, someone may have a tendency to develop TS.

Can you get Tourette's out of nowhere?

The tic can emerge at any age, but it most commonly appears between the ages of 6 and 18 years. During adolescence and early adulthood, the tics will normally become less severe, but In 10 to 15 percent of cases, Tourette's can become worse as the person moves into adulthood.