User:Mr. Ibrahem/Tic disorder

Tic disorders are a group of disorders that present with either motor or vocal tics. Tics are sudden, rapid, nonrhythmic movements or sounds. They can vary from simple blinking to more complex such as speaking a group of words. In tic disorders this occur repeatedly. They can often be consciously stopped for a period of time. Complications may include psychological distress.

There are four types: Tourette disorder, persistent tic disorder, provisional tic disorder, and other specified and unspecified tic disorders. They represent different severities with Tourette's being the most severe. The first three by definition, have an onset before the age of 18.

Risk factors include family history. Associated condition include ADHD, obsessive compulsive disorder, and depression. Episodes may be triggered by stress, excitement, or lack of sleep. Diagnosis is based on symptoms after ruling out other conditions that may present similarly. Similar conditions include ADHD, myoclonus, cocaine intoxication, Huntington disease, or postviral encephalitis.

Most cases can be managed with education and reassurance. Occasionally behavioral therapy or medication may be used. Tic disorders affect up to 4% of people, while Tourette's affects about 1 in 200 school aged children. Males are affected about 3 times as often as females. Onset is often around 5 years of age, is most severe around 11 years of age, and gets better in later childhood. Those with mild to moderate tics generally have good outcomes.