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Transient tic disorder Causes and Risks:
Transient tic disorder is common in children. Five to twenty four percent of all school age children have had tics. The cause of transient tic disorder (short-lived, temporary tic) is either organic or
psychogenic. The child may have facial tics or tics involving movement of the arms, legs, or other areas. Tics appear to get worse with emotional stress and are absent while sleeping.
Tics may be precipitated in predisposed children with ADHD when they are given methylphenidate (Ritalin). This antihyperactive drug does not cause the tic but precipitates it. Withdrawal of the drug, however, may not stop the tic once it has been initiated.
Prevention:
There is no prevention for this condition.
Symptoms:
- recurrent nonrythmic movements
- vocalizations (grunts, abdominal and diaphragmatic contractions)
Signs and Tests:
Physical causes of transient tic disorder should be considered before a diagnosis for this disorder is made.
Treatment:
Clinicians recommend the family pay no attention to the tics at first, since unwanted attention may make the tics worse. If tics are severe enough to cause problems in school or occupational functioning, then behavioral techniques are recommended.
Prognosis:
Simple childhood tics can be expected to disappear spontaneously over a period of months.
Complications:
There are usually no complications. A chronic motor or vocal tic disorder can develop.
Call Your Healthcare Provider:
There is usually no need to see the health care provider for a transient tic disorder unless it becomes persistent or disruptive to the child's life. If there is a question whether the movements are really a tic (as opposed to a seizure , for example), consult with your health care provider.
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