So this week is dedicated to my fellow tickers of the Tourette’s variety. According to the NHS website tics are involuntary sounds or movements. Tics can be sudden and difficult to control and usually start in childhood. For some people tics may disappear in adulthood however a significant number of people may find tics continue into adulthood with them.

Examples of physical tics can include: jumping, grimacing, eye rolling, jerking and blinking amongst other things. Whereas examples of vocal tics can include: whistling, coughing, animal sounds, grunting and tongue clicking. However there are an abundance of different tics depending on the individual.

For anyone learning about Tourette’s and tics for the first time it is important to know that not all people with tics swear! In fact people who experience swearing also known as Coprolalia are less common than people who don’t.

My experience

I am what I would call a motor ticker meaning my tics are physical and in my movements rather than verbal. I was diagnosed when I was about 18 which tends to be quite late after spending years being told I was epileptic. I am able to control my tics in public which I know some people are unable to do, but I suffer for this when at home as I have to release the build-up once I am back. This obviously causes havoc with my ME/CFS and Fibromyalgia as my muscles stiffen up when I tic.

My tics have evolved over the years although my current bundle include pacing whilst kicking out legs and arms, facial grimacing and holding my arms and hands stiff.

My top tips for tics – as always please check with your doctor/specialist before trying any new tips/ideas.

• Manage stress levels – Stress and anxiety can make you need to tic worse. Try to identify any stressful triggers in your life and look at ways to overcome them. You can read my previous articles on modern day stress here and managing stress at home here for more tips.

• Get good restful sleep – As with stress tiredness can elevate your ticking. Practice good sleep hygiene and make sure you get enough sleep and rest each night. For more information on good sleep hygiene you can read my article I’m not Lazy, I’m Fatigued here.

• Find engaging activities – I have to admit I do struggle with this particular point because I find I need to tic in intense happiness as well as intense stress. However they do say focusing your mind on an activity can help your tics to subside. Consider activities such as puzzle books, craftwork and reading.

• Find support through charities – A great tool to feel connected to others with tics and know you are not alone is to look on the websites of Tourette’s charities such as Tourettes Action based in the UK and The Tourette Organisation of America. These websites hold an array of information including information on symptoms, information for professionals and support groups. They can also give you more information on behavioural therapies that you may find of use.

• Consider a medical card/bracelet – If your tics are severe you may want to consider carrying a medical card or wearing a medical bracelet. That way if you are in certain situations were your tics arise you can show the card/bracelet to others to show them they are a result of Tourette’s.

• Embrace your tics – Whilst you can find ways to hide your tics and in some scenarios you may find this beneficial, I also think it is important to embrace them too. Tics don’t define you, but they are a part of you and you should never feel ashamed of who you are. Educate others by talking about your tics because the more people understand the real world of Tourette’s the more comfortable you will feel.

Next week’s symptom: OCD