1800 54 37 37​
Book an appointment

Tic Disorders

Summary

Tics are sudden, repetitive movements or sounds that children may make involuntarily. These can include blinking, shoulder shrugging, throat clearing, or sniffing. Tics often become more noticeable during times of stress, excitement, or change.

Tics are most common in children and adolescents and tend to be more frequent in boys. Many children experience mild tics that come and go and do not require treatment. However, if tics interfere with daily life, social interactions, or cause discomfort, medical advice may be needed.
Tics can sometimes occur alongside other conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). 

Diagnosis and When to Seek Help

Most tics are harmless and do not require medical treatment. However, parents should consider consulting a doctor if:

  • Tics become severe or cause physical pain.
  • The child feels embarrassed or struggles socially due to tics.
  • Tics worsen significantly or continue for more than a year.
  • The child has other symptoms, such as difficulty focusing, anxiety, or compulsive behaviors.

Management

Many tics improve on their own without treatment. If intervention is needed, options include:

  • Education & Reassurance: Understanding that tics are common and often temporary can help reduce concern.
  • Behavioral Therapy: Habit reversal therapy (HRT) can help children become more aware of their tics and learn strategies to manage them.
  • Reducing Stress & Anxiety: Encouraging relaxation techniques, structured routines, and stress management can help lessen tics.
  • Medication: In rare cases, when tics are severe or significantly impact daily life, a doctor may discuss medication options.

Follow-Up and Monitoring

  • Monitor the frequency and intensity of tics over time.
  • Help your child manage stress and create a supportive environment.
  • If tics persist or worsen, follow up with a healthcare provider to explore additional support.

Most children with tics continue to lead normal, happy lives, and many see improvement as they grow older. 

History and Exam

Key diagnostic factor

  • presence of risk factors
  • observed tics
  • premonitory sensation
  • ability to suppress tics

Other diagnostic factors

  • symptoms worse with stress, anxiety, excitement, or transitions
  • variable severity over time
  • symptoms of comorbid psychiatric disorder

Risk factors

  • onset at age <18 years
  • male sex
  • family history of tics
  • family history of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), ADHD, or depression

Diagnostic Investigations

1st investigations to order

  • clinical diagnosis

Investigations to consider

  • MRI brain with and without contrast
  • electroencephalogram
  • cerebrospinal fluid analysis (lumbar puncture)

Book an Appointment

    1 Reason for referral *

    2 Parent Surname *

    3 Patient First Name *

    4 Email *

    5 Patient Surname *

    6 Phone *

    7 Child’s date of birth *

    8 Address

    Other Related Conditions

    epilepsy and seizures

    headaches and migraines

    developmental delay, neurodevelopmental disorders

    weakness

    cerebral palsy

    neurogenetic disorders

    neurometabolic disorder

    Contact Us

    medical
    dental
    PSYCHOLOGY
    1800 54 37 37​
    Book an appointment

    COPYRIGHT © 2025. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

      1 Reason for referral *

      2 Parent Surname *

      3 Patient First Name *

      4 Email *

      5 Patient Surname *

      6 Phone *

      7 Child’s date of birth *

      8 Address