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Transient tic disorder

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A tic is a sudden, overpowering movement or sound that diverges from the normal gestures of an individual. An individual might rapidly blink repeatedly even if there is nothing irritating the eyes.

Each individual experiences a transient tic disorder differently. One might suffer from either uncontrolled noises or movements. It is important to note that tics are common among children and can last for less than a year. A child with transient tic disorder has evident physical or vocal tics.

The most prevalent tic disorder is Tourette’s syndrome where both verbal and physical tics occur, often at the same time. A transient tic disorder also covers both forms of tics but frequently arise separately.

What are the causes?

There is no exact cause for transient tic disorder. Based on research, it was discovered that tic disorders can be inherited. In rare instances, a genetic mutation can cause Tourette’s syndrome.

Transient tic disorder
The tics are often mixed up with nervous behavior that can increase during phases of stress and do not occur during sleep.

Irregularities in the brain might also be responsible for tic disorders. These abnormalities are the cause of other mental conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and depression.

In some cases, research revealed that transient tic disorder might be linked to neurotransmitters. These are chemicals in the brain that send off nerve signals to the cells.

Indications of transient tic disorder

Tic disorders include chronic motor or vocal tic disorder, Tourette’s syndrome and transient tic disorder. The doctor will diagnose the condition as non-specific if the symptoms could not be included into one of these categories.

The tics are often mixed up with nervous behavior that can increase during phases of stress and do not occur during sleep. The tics can occur frequently but they do not usually have a rhythm.

Individuals who have tics might uncontrollably raise their eyebrows, flare their nostrils, shrug their shoulders or clench their fists which are called as physical tics. Oftentimes, a tic can cause repeated clearing of the throat, producing a certain noise such as a moan or grunt and clicking the tongue

Management

  • Transient tic disorder in children usually subsides without treatment. It is not advisable to call attention to the tics since this can make the child self-conscious and worsen the symptoms.
  • Combination of medication and therapy can help in cases where the tics affect school or work. Since stress can worsen the tics, measures to control and manage stress are vital.
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy is beneficial in treating tic disorders. The individual learns to avoid self-destructive actions to manage their behaviors, emotions and thoughts.
  • The doctor might prescribe medications to reduce the dopamine in the brain such as haloperidol, fluphenazine or pimozide. Antidepressants can also be given to manage the symptoms of sadness, anxiety or obsessive-compulsive disorder

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