Tics
Tics are involuntary, uncontrolled and repeated muscle movements.
Classification of tics:
- Transient Tic Disorder- This, by far, is the most common type of tic disorder. It is more common in boys and usually resolves within a year. The most common types of tics are rapid eye blinking, facial movements and throat clearing. Occasionally one will resolve and another will follow.
- Chronic Motor Tics- These type of tics typically do not go away and are more complex. They often occur in up to 3 different muscle groups such as eye blinking and different facial movements.
- Tourette's Syndrome- Although parents fear this disorder the most, it is very rare. Tourette's is a lifelong disorder that includes complex motor tics and vocal tics.
What causes tics?
Usually it is a transient developmental disorder, occasionally it is genetic. Sometimes tics may be unmasked by certain medications, such as those that treat ADHD. Occasionally, tics need to be evaluated further to be sure they are not really seizures. Rarely, they can be related to bacterial infections such as strep throat.
Treatment
- Typically, ignoring the tic is best, try not to pay too much attention to the tic or it can get worse.
- Try to reduce the stress in your child's life.
- Don't scold or punish your child for the tics, it may make things worse.
- For persistent tics, biofeedback may be helpful in managing the tics.
- In more severe cases, such as Tourette's Syndrome the child may need to see a neurologist or psychiatrist and medications may be helpful.
Please call our office if the tics last greater than 6 months, multiple muscle groups are involved, they are increasing in severity and /or frequency because this increases the concern for seizures. If the tics are causing social problems at school, home, or other situations then counseling may be beneficial.