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| TIC DISORDERS
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What is Tic disorder?
Tic is a problem in which part of the body moves repeatedly, quickly, suddenly and uncontrollably. Tics can occur in any body part, such as the face, shoulders, hands or legs. They can be stopped voluntarily for brief periods. Sounds that are made involuntarily (such as throat clearing) are called vocal tics. Most of the time tics are mild and hardly noticeable. However, in some cases they are frequent and severe, and can affect many areas of a child's life.
What is the most common tic disorder?
The most common tic disorder is called "transient tic disorder" which may affect up to 10 percent of children during the early school years. They occur during stress or nervousness. Transient tics usually go away by themselves.
What is the cause of tics?
At present there is no direct cause known to cause tic disorder, but anxiety, tiredness and some medications may provoke tics.
Do tics last forever?
Normally tic disorder can cure themselves, but some tics do not go away. Those tics which last one year or more are called chronic tics. It can affect 1 percent of children and may be related to a special, more unusual tic disorder called Tourette's disorder.
What is Tourette's disorder?
Children with Tourette's disorder may have problems with attention, concentration and may have learning disabilities. They may act impulsively or develop obsessions and compulsions combined with outburst of swearing and obscenities and vocal tics.
How to deal with a child having tic disorder?
First, involve pediatric neurologist to rule out any problem in the brain. A psychiatrist can determine whether a youngster has a Tourette's disorder or another Tic disorder. Medications such as diazepam and clonidine help to control the symptoms and many times emotional support is also needed with appropriate educational environment. Medications need to be given under a doctor's guidance.
Last updated on 01-03-2007
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