Tics; They are sudden onset, non-rhythmic involuntary movements (motor tics) or sounds (vocal tics). Tics usually begin in childhood. It mostly increases between the ages of 7-12. Most of them improve after adolescence. Genetic and environmental factors are effective in the development of tics.
Tics can be in the form of movements such as eye blinking and moving the nose (motor tics), or they can be in the form of sniffing and throat clearing (vocal tics).
Tics may change places. While initially there is a blinking tic, after a while this tic disappears and tics such as nose twitching and shoulder shrugging may occur.
There may be increases or decreases in the severity of the tics, and sometimes there may even be periods when the tics disappear completely. Long-term exposure to screens, stress and anxiety, over-excitement, infections and fatigue can increase tics. In situations where the child feels comfortable (holidays, doing sports, playing a musical instrument), tics decrease or disappear. Tics do not occur during sleep.
Before tics, especially children over the age of 10, may describe sensory sensations such as itching and restlessness before the tic occurs. Children with these feelings can notice that tics will occur. Tics can be partially controlled by the child. A child who suppresses his tics at school may experience an increase in his tics when he comes home.
Since tics often have a sudden onset, families may worry. Even though tics can be partially suppressed, they are not movements that the child makes knowingly and voluntarily. The child should not be warned to avoid tics. Constantly warning the child due to his tics may increase the child's tension and tics.
It is necessary to determine the factors that trigger tics and to evaluate accompanying conditions such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Anxiety Disorder and Depression.
For simple tics, informing the family about the course and progress of the tics, psychoeducation and behavioral methods are often sufficient. However, if the severity of the tics is intense and negatively affects the child's mood, academic success, and relationships with friends and family, medication may be required.
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