Tics that develop in adulthood for the first time are typically not diagnosed as either TS or TTD. Both conditions must originate during childhood to be diagnosed as such. Boys are approximately three to four times more likely than girls to develop TS and TTD.
When repetitive words and phrases are spoken, it’s considered a more complex vocal tic. Kids with TS are more likely to display coprolalia (yelling out socially inappropriate words or phrases — vulgar swearing) and echolalia (mimicking the words or phrases of others). Despite how it’s portrayed in movies and TV, coprolalia only occurs in 10 to 15% of people with TS. [3] X Research source
The most common first symptoms of both TS and TTD are facial tics (blinking, raising eyebrows, nose twitching, grimacing, sticking out tongues). Initial facial tics are often added to or replaced by tics of the neck, trunk and/or limbs. Tics of both TS and TTD often occur many times daily (usually in bouts or bursts of activity) nearly every day, although sometimes there are breaks. The tics often look like really nervous behavior and can get worse with stress. Interestingly, tics usually don’t occur during sleep. [5] X Research source
Most cases of TTD fade away within weeks to months, well within the one year time period. Tics that last a year or a little more may be called “chronic tics” until enough time passes that qualifies for a TS diagnosis. TTD is much more common than TS. About 10% of kids develop TTD during their early school years, which later fades away. [9] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Nonprofit organization dedicated to providing and improving psychiatric care for children and adolescents. Go to source In contrast, about 1% of Americans have mild TS and approximately 200,000 have severe TS (both kids and adults combined).
An inherited genetic condition means that it’s passed on from at least one parent to child through genes located on chromosomes. Research indicates that TS may involve inherited brain abnormalities in certain regions and circuits, as well as hormones called neurotransmitters — essentially communication among brain cells is disrupted or over-stimulated.
Obsessive compulsive behavior includes intrusive thoughts and worries combined with repetitive behaviors — worries about dirt / germs get associated with repetitive hand-washing, for example. TS in particular is strongly associated with co-occurring conditions. About 86% of children with TS also have at least one additional mental, behavioral or developmental condition — often either ADHD or OCD. [11] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
There are no blood, laboratory or brain imaging tests used for diagnosing tics. Most kids or adults are self-diagnosed after they, their parents / relatives or friends read or hear about TS or TTD. Chronic emotional, psychological and physical stress is associated with virtually every behavioral abnormality. Look at your child’s daily routine and try to spot the major stressors, then alleviate them if you can.
If the tic doesn’t go away within a week or, ask your child what’s bothering them. Maybe they have allergies, a chronic infection or another illness. Short-term repetitive behavior is not always a tic. Don’t mimic your child’s tic in efforts to be humorous or playful — it may make them more self-conscious or nervous. Seeking therapy or medication for a mild tic in a child due to your embarrassment is not a good idea. Deciding on treatment should depend on if the tic behavior disrupts your child’s life or has a real negative impact.
Cognitive behavioral therapies typically include habit-reversal training, which helps to identify the urge to tic and then learn to voluntarily combat it from happening. Most tics can’t be stopped completely, but they can be made less obvious or forceful. Psychotherapy involves talking and asking probing questions. It can help more with accompanying behavioral problems, such as ADHD, OCD, depression and anxiety.
Drugs that help control tics by blocking or reducing dopamine in the brain include: fluphenazine, haloperidol (Haldol) and pimozide (Orap). Ironically, a possible side effect is more involuntary, repetitive movements. Botulinum (Botox) injections paralyze muscle tissue and may be helpful for controlling simple isolated tics of the face and neck. ADHD medications, such as methylphenidate (Concerta, Ritalin) and dextroamphetamine (Adderall, Dexedrine), can sometimes help with tics, but they can also exacerbate them too. Central adrenergic inhibitors, such as clonidine (Catapres) and guanfacine (Tenex), can help with impulse control and reduce rage. Anti-seizure drugs typically used for epilepsy, such as topiramate (Topamax), have proven helpful for some TS patients. [15] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
