Nervous tic disorder is a condition characterized by repeated involuntary contractions of one muscle or more. This usually occurs in the face, shoulders, or arms. Although facial tics can be extremely diverse, most individuals just experience facial grimacing, nose wrinkling, eye blinking, grunting, throat clearing, and squinting. These involuntary jerks commonly happen in sudden bouts.
The main cause of nervous tic disorder is not yet fully understood. But, there are several factors that play a role in its development. Some tics are caused neurological disorders as a result of head trauma or brain damage at birth. There are also instances when this disorder may be inherited. Studies reveal that some siblings have genes that when mutated can increase their chances of suffering from Tourette Syndrome. Individuals with Tourette Syndrome can experience both vocal and body tics.
Aside from these, nervous tic disorder can also be triggered by certain medications, diet deficiencies, and anxiety. The nervous body movements can also worsen due to an illness, over-stimulation, stress, excitement, and fatigue.
Nervous tics are often seen on children who have not reached puberty. These tics generally subside after a few months, although there are cases that they can last for years. Tics that exist for an extended period of time are usually known as chronic tic disorder. With this disorder, tics may change from one type to another. Meanwhile, transient tic disorder is less common and only lasts for a short while. They are also not usually associated with certain behavioral problems.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Nervous Tic Disorder
There is specific test that can be use to nervous tic disorder. Doctors normally run several tests in order to rule out other conditions that have similar symptoms as what tics patients have. Through a comprehensive evaluation, it would be easier for doctors to determine whether a person has Tourette Syndrome or other types of tic disorder.
The decision whether a tic should be treated or not partly based on its cause and the effect that it has on the person who is suffering from it. Typically, nervous tic disorder or other conditions that pose mental or physical threat should be addressed. Tranquilizers, certain types of medicines, and muscle relaxants can be used to treat nervous tics that caused by neurological problems.
However, since some medications have side effects, some people strive to find medications that are made from natural ingredients can help them manage the symptoms of the condition without any adverse effect. Hyoscyamus is an herb that is believed to have the capability to relieve nervous tics and muscle twitching as well as Tourette syndrome. Other treatment options include chiropractic, psychotherapy, hypnosis, relaxation, and group therapy.
Nervous tic disorder can have a negative effect on the physical and psychological well-being of those who are suffering from it. That is why it has become imperative to seek the help of your doctor to help you address the issues that are associated with it and improve not just your health but the quality of your life as well.