Noticing that your child is making sudden, repetitive movements or sounds can be concerning, leaving you wondering what’s happening and why. These are tics that can occur in the form of repetitive eye blinking, throat clearing or shoulder shrugging. They are common in children and teenagers, often triggered by factors like fatigue and stress.
If your child has been displaying tics for more than one year, it’s recommended that you consult with a professional to determine if they might be dealing with a tic disorder such as Tourette Syndrome (TS).
What Are Tics?
Tics are sudden, involuntary movements (motor tics) or sounds (vocal tics) that occur repeatedly. They’re typically transient, meaning they often come and go, and are more common in school-aged children.
Some studies have found that up to 20 percent of children develop a motor tic at some point. Most tics last from a few weeks to a few months.
Common motor tics include:
- Eye blinking
- Nose twitching
- Shoulder shrugging
- Grimacing
Vocal tics can include:
- Throat clearing
- Sniffing
- Repeating words or phrases
What Causes Tics?
The exact cause of tics isn’t fully understood, but they often stem from a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Tics often begin between the ages of 4 and 6 and become more pronounced during the “tween” years (from ages 8 to 12). Many children outgrow their tics by adulthood.
Some common causes of tics in children and teens can include:
- Family history: Genetics play a significant role, as tics often run in families
- Environmental factors: Exposure to certain environmental factors may contribute to the development of tics
Also of note, Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are frequently associated with tics.
Some common triggers of tics in children and teens can include:
- Stress or anxiety: Tics can be exacerbated during stressful or exciting times
- Fatigue: A lack of sleep can sometimes increase the frequency of tics
- Certain medications: Certain medications can trigger tics
Why Has My Child Suddenly Developed Tics?
If your child has tics that appeared suddenly and without warning, they may be due to some of the common reasons below:
- Stress or life changes: A new school year, social pressures or family changes might worsen tics
- Illness or fatigue: Being overtired or unwell can exacerbate tics or bring them to light for the first time
- Developmental changes: Tics often emerge during periods of rapid growth or developmental changes in children
Should I Worry About My Child’s Tics?
In many cases, tics are temporary and not a cause for concern. There are instances when you should seek medical advice:
- Persistent tics: If tics last for more than a year, this may be suggestive of a chronic tic disorder or Tourette Syndrome. People with Tourette Syndrome have both motor and vocal tics that begin prior to age 18 and have had tic symptoms for at least one year.
- Interference with daily life: If tics affect your child’s ability to focus at school, sleep or interact with others, they may require treatment.
- Associated conditions: Signs of OCD, ADHD, or other behavioral concerns alongside tics should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Next Steps and When to See a Doctor
If you’re concerned about your child’s tics, consult a neurologist or a specialist in tic disorders. A thorough evaluation will help determine whether the tics are indicative of an underlying condition, such as Tourette Syndrome.
Specialists may use tools like behavioral observation, medical history and neurological assessments to make a diagnosis.
Treatment Options for Tics
Treatment for tics depends on the severity of the tics and their impact on your child’s life.
Options can include:
- Reassurance and education: Mild tics often require no treatment other than monitoring and reassurance. These types of tics may go away on their own.
- Behavioral therapy: Techniques like Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT) can help your child manage their tics.
- Medications: In cases where tics cause significant distress, medications such as oral medication or botulinum toxin injections may be recommended to reduce the severity of tics.
By taking proactive steps and seeking guidance from healthcare professionals, most children can manage their tics effectively and lead happy, healthy lives.
If you’re looking for expert care, the Stony Brook TAA Center of Excellence for Tourette Syndrome and Tic Disorders provides multidisciplinary evaluations and treatments for tic disorders. As the only Tourette Association of America-designated center on Long Island, we’re here to support your family. Learn more about the center and schedule a consultation here.
