Symptoms:

• Excessive blinking
• Grimaces of the face
• Quick movements of the arms, legs, or other areas
• Sounds (grunts, throat clearing, contractions of the abdomen or diaphragm)

People can hold off these symptoms for a short period of time, but they feel a sense of relief when they carry out these movements.

Tics may continue during all stages of sleep. They may get worse with:

• Excitement
• Fatigue
• Heat
• Stress

Signs and tests:

The doctor can usually diagnose a tic during a physical examination. Tests are generally not needed.

To be diagnosed with the disorder:

• You must have had the tics nearly every day for more than a year
• You have not had a tic-free period longer than 3 months