OCD and Tourette's

[Guest guest]

I am new to this sight and am looking for other parent's input. My 11-year-old

son has OCD and Tourette's. We first noticed tics 2 years ago and it has slowly

progressed and morphed in the last 2 years. Most days we are not sure what we

will face because his OCD and Tourette's changes constantly.

Lately, his favorite of 3 sisters has become the focuse of his obsessions and

compulsions. If she folds the laundry, even if she hasn't touched his clothes,

he will not ever wear those items again. She is hurt because her big brother

means the world to her. And it upsets him because he doesn't want to hurt jer

feelings.

I just don't understand. I have read all I can on OCD and Tourette's, but I

don't get it. He had a rage episode the other day. His meltdown was so intense

that when he settled, he had petechiae around his eyes, on his neck, and

shoulders. One night he looked like his brain was about to explode. He took

pieces out of the drywall with his finger nails. He has even pulled out 3

molars in 2 days. Two of the teeth were not ready to come out and the 3rd

probably took some persuading.

I don't get it. As a Mom, all I want to do is to help him feel better, and

right now, I can't help. He is on Straterra for anxiety, melatonin for

relaxation at night, and is changing from the psychologist to the psychiatrist

in the next couple of weeks. I am worried for him, and for my husband and I. I

felt like I was having heart problems one night just from the stress.

If anyone has had the same experiences, I would love to hear. I know there are

others facing the same things, but these conditions are not always understood by

those around us. I know I can't be he only one feeling like I am alone.

Thanks for listening.