Tics and Tourette’s
Definition
For tics to be classified as Tourette Syndrome, they have to be present for at least a year and include at least one vocal tic.
In the case of children, they can often develop tics but grow out of them after several months. These are known as transient tics.
Signs & Symptoms
Tics can be defined as 2 groups:
- Vocal tics – such as grunting, coughing, shouting out words, sniffing or throat clearing; or
- Motor tics – such as jerking of the head, jumping up and down, blinking of the eyes or shrugging of shoulders
Tics can also be:
- Simple – such as making a small movement or uttering a single sound; or
- Complex – such as making a series of movements or speaking a long phrase
Most people who are diagnosed with Tics and Tourette Syndrome have a combination of physical and vocal tics, which can be both simple and complex.
Tics can often be heightened when under stress, anxiety, if ill or nervously excited and sometime surprisingly when relaxing and coming home from school or work. Conversely, tics can often be reduced if doing an enjoyable task and if kept focused.
Treatment Options
Although there is no cure for Tics and Tourette Syndrome, the condition in many people improves in the late teens and early 20s. Some may actually become symptom-free or no longer need medication for tic suppression, although the disorder is generally lifelong and chronic
Tic symptoms often don’t cause any impairment; therefore, the majority of people with Tics and Tourette Syndrome require no medication for tic suppression
If the patient does require medication then some second generation medications are often prescribed for tic suppression
Assessment Elements
- Some questionnaires may be required to be completed by yourself or other third parties (if you are in agreement)
- Detailed questions will be asked during the assessment process regarding the patient's history, presenting concerns and desired outcomes
- Any pre-existing letters or materials from other clinicians who have assessed or treated the patient may be requested
- Depending on the patient’s or family's medical history, further cardiac investigations may be required. If so, we can provide you contact details of trusted clinics where these can be undertaken, or you can ask your GP for a referral
- Weight, height, pulse and blood pressure may potentially be taken or requested (if applicable)
- Psychoeducation strategies offered and written resources provided
- If Autism is diagnosed then medication may potentially be discussed and prescribed (if consent obtained) during the assessment process and if there are no significant physical health concerns
- If medication is commenced, then regular 30 minute review appointments (approx. every 1 to 3 months) at our centre will be required to safely monitor the patient's progress
Our Tics & Tourette's Pathways
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