Facial tics

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Tic - facial; Mimic spasm

Short-lived childhood tics are not treated. Calling the child's attention to a tic may make it worse or cause it to continue. A nonstressful environment can reduce the frequency of tics, and help them go away more quickly. Stress reduction programs may also be helpful.

If tics are disabling, medications such as clonidine or risperdal (Risperidone) may help control them.

Simple childhood tics should go away on their own over a period of months. Chronic tics may continue for a longer period of time.

In most cases, there are no complications.

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if tics:

• Affect many muscle groups
• Are persistent
• Are severe

Review Date: 03/09/2010
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; Daniel B. Hoch, PhD, MD, Assistant Professor of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).

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