Many people at some point experience spasm-like movements of particular muscles. These movements are known as tics (sometimes twitches) and often affect the eyelids, face, or neck. However, they can occur anywhere in the body.
In most instances, tics and twitches are harmless and temporary. In some cases, though, they may be caused by a tic disorder. Tic disorders generally can be managed with medical treatment and lifestyle changes. Tics need to be differentiated from other neurological diseases such as seizures, hemifacial spasm (irritation of the facial nerve), other movement disorders, and mannerisms. Other underlying systemic diseases need to be ruled out.
Tics. There are two types of tics — motor tics and vocal tics. These short-lasting sudden movements (motor tics) or uttered sounds (vocal tics) occur suddenly during what is otherwise normal behavior. Tics are often repetitive with numerous successive occurrences of the same action. For instance, someone with a tic might blink his eyes multiple times or twitch her nose repeatedly. Patients with tic disorders can suppress the movements or uttered sounds for a short period of time, but this will cause discomfort to the point that the individual is relieved by performing the tic. While people of all ages can experience tics, they are most prevalent in children. Experts say that around 25% of children experience tics. Tics are far more likely to affect boys than girls.
Transient tic disorder. This disorder most commonly appears in youth. It affects between 5% and 25% of school-age children. Transient tic disorder is characterized by the presence of one or more tics for at least one month but less than one year. The majority of tics seen in this disorder are motor tics, though vocal tics may also be present. This often will subside over time.
Chronic motor or vocal tic disorder. While transient tics disappear within a year, chronic tics can last for a year or more. Chronic tic disorder is characterized by the presence of one or more long-lasting tics and must begin before the age of 18. They may be either motor or vocal, but not both.
Tourette’s syndrome. In some instances, what appears to be a chronic tic may be a sign of Tourette’s syndrome. This syndrome is the most severe tic disorder. It is characterized by the presence of both motor tics and vocal tics. Other associated conditions seen are obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention-deficit disorder, and impairment in socialization skills.
Medications are often effective in the treatment of Tic disorders. Drugs called neuroleptics are commonly used and are helpful. However, they do have side effects. Other drugs such as clonidine (an antihypertensive medication), clonazepam, and botox injections also help. Behavioral therapy may also be beneficial.
If you would like to learn how to care for this disease or any other neurological condition, please call 609-463-8009 or 609-653-9595. My office is conveniently located at 4 Village Drive in Cape May Court House and 160 Shore Road in Somers Point. Please visit my website at www.stzorfas.com
