Facial tics are brief, involuntary, repeated twitching of muscles in the face. They may be frequent or almost continuous. Some common facial tics include:
Tics often start between the ages of 7 to 9, but may start as early as age 3. Tics often go away as children grow up. They sometimes develop when the person is tense or anxious.
Tic disorders tend to run in families. Males are more likely to be affected than females. Tics may be related to carbon monoxide poisoning, strep infections, some stimulant medicines, caffeine, tumors, Tourette syndrome, multiple sclerosis or stroke. Pain in the face or teeth, denture problems, or damage to the facial nerve may cause a muscle spasm.
The muscle twitching in facial 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 allows the tic to occur. There may be a feeling of relief until the sense of need for another tic occurs. Tics are decreased when the person is relaxed and usually stop during sleep. They get worse with tension and emotional strain.
Your healthcare provider will examine you, observe symptoms, and ask about medical and family history. You may have an EEG, MRI, CAT scan, or blood tests to rule out other conditions, such as a seizure disorder.
Most tics are not harmful and get better on their own. They may cause embarrassment. Focusing too much on tics can make them worse.
Typically, tics increase when the person is tense or stressed, and decrease when the person is asleep, relaxed, or focused on an absorbing task. The use of relaxation techniques or biofeedback may help relieve stress.
Chronic tic disorders and Tourette syndrome are often treated with medicine. Behavioral therapies and Botox injections may also help. Depending on the cause, surgery may be done on facial nerves or muscles. If your symptoms are seriously interfering with your daily life, seek help from your healthcare provider or a mental health professional.
