Tics


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Tics


Tics are repeated spasms or contractions of particular muscles, such as the muscles of the face (facial tic). A person who has a tic usually cannot control it, except for short periods.

Repeated clearing of the throat, sniffing, excessive blinking, and shrugging the shoulders are examples of tics.

Tics are associated with certain diseases, particularly Tourette's disorder. The cause is often unknown. Tics can also be brought on by medicines. Tics may become worse during periods of stress.

Credits


Author Jeannette Curtis
Author Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated May 25, 2007

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Last updated: May 25, 2007
Author: Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors: Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC

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