Facial tics

A facial tic is an involuntary twitching of muscles in the face. An irritation of the facial nerve may cause a spasm of the muscles it supplies. A reflex spasm may also result from pain in the face or teeth. Tics resemble these types of true spasms, but some doctors consider them more emotional in origin. A common tic is a twitching of the corner of the eye or mouth.

Tics often start around age 6 and resolve as the child matures. They may develop when a child goes through a period of anxiety. There have been cases caused by certain drugs or head trauma. Tics are about three times more common in boys than in girls and may run in families.

Some common facial tics include:

• eye blinking
• sticking out or biting the tongue or
• facial grimaces or gestures

The muscle twitching in tics repeats in the same pattern. Tics have no apparent purpose. They are not voluntary, but the person may be able to control them for short periods. Repressing them usually makes the person anxious until he or she develops another tic. They usually cease during sleep. They become more pronounced with tension and emotional strain. Some tics start as true spasms.

Tourette's syndrome is a rare condition that begins in childhood. One may see blinking, grimaces, shrugging, and arm movements. The tics get worse and are joined by vocal tics. There may be grunting, sniffing, or barking noises. The person is prone to sudden and loud swearing. The symptoms come and go throughout adult life. The cause is not understood. Tourette's syndrome is usually treated with medicines. Side effects may occur from the medicines and must be balanced with the control of the tics.

Most tics are not harmful, but sometimes they may indicate a more serious problem. Special techniques to change behaviors may help treat tic disorders. Counseling may uncover emotional causes and help deal with problems caused by tics. Minor tics may respond to mild sedatives or other medications.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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