Tic Disorders and Twitches
Chronic tics occur in less than one in 100 children.
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.
Since many people with the disorder have not been diagnosed, it is unknown exactly how many people in the U.S. are living with Tourette's syndrome. Experts estimate that around 200,000 people in the U.S. have the condition. Symptoms typically begin when children are between ages 5 and 18 years.
The severity of Tourette's syndrome often changes over time. There may be periods of reduced tic frequency followed by heightened tic activity. Fortunately, many people with Tourette's syndrome find that their condition improves as they get older.
The treatment for tic disorders depends on the severity of the condition. In many instances, no treatment is needed and the tics will resolve on their own.
In other cases, doctors may prescribe behavioral therapy, medication, or a combination of the two. Behavioral therapy helps people learn to manage their tic symptoms and reduce tic frequency. Medications are typically used to reduce tic frequency and enhance a person's daily life. This usually does not result in the complete remission of tic symptoms.
Weird Body Quirks Slideshow: From Brain Freeze to Hiccuping
Tic Disorders and Twitches
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What Are the Common Tic Disorders? continued...
Chronic tics occur in less than one in 100 children.
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.
Since many people with the disorder have not been diagnosed, it is unknown exactly how many people in the U.S. are living with Tourette's syndrome. Experts estimate that around 200,000 people in the U.S. have the condition. Symptoms typically begin when children are between ages 5 and 18 years.
The severity of Tourette's syndrome often changes over time. There may be periods of reduced tic frequency followed by heightened tic activity. Fortunately, many people with Tourette's syndrome find that their condition improves as they get older.
How Are Tic Disorders Treated?
The treatment for tic disorders depends on the severity of the condition. In many instances, no treatment is needed and the tics will resolve on their own.
In other cases, doctors may prescribe behavioral therapy, medication, or a combination of the two. Behavioral therapy helps people learn to manage their tic symptoms and reduce tic frequency. Medications are typically used to reduce tic frequency and enhance a person's daily life. This usually does not result in the complete remission of tic symptoms.
Weird Body Quirks Slideshow: From Brain Freeze to Hiccuping
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