Possible Tourette syndrome-adult female

[gogospencer]

Hello,
I have been doing quite a bit of research lately on Tourette's Syndrome and am little fearful that it may explain my tics. I am a 38 year old healthy female with no other physical, emotional or psychological problems. I am a healthy height and weight and exercise regularly.

I have had a facial tic since I was very young--the first time I really knew it was there was when my parents commented that my nose wiggled a lot while standing on stage singing in group choir when I was about 10 years old. I had a vocal tic which sounded sort of like a short, two-note yodel, and several facial tics including flaring of the nostrils, flexing the nostrils, flipping the lower lip inside out, moving the corner of the mouth so that the neck flexes and pursing the lips. I have had all of these things my entire life, with some periods where they are far less, and others where they almost take over.

Today, the vocal tic is almost gone--I often get the urge strongly but can somehow control it so that it only happens maybe once a month (when I let it happen, it feels weirdly very good, like a relief). The nose twiching and mouth twitching continues and is really beginning to bother me. The last few weeks I have also been clenching my front teeth together in tic-like fashion (a new tic for me)---this means, not constantly but in short bursts of a half a second or so, just like one time and then stop. But I do this now several times an hour, and combined with the nose flaring and lip tics, I am feeling like I can't control them.

My husband of 6 years has never said anything, but I am sure he must notice. I never have been one to think of myself having a "condition," as these tics have been a part of my life. But I do it now in the workplace, at appointments and with friends where I am sure they must notice. I don't want to go on any medications that will impair my ability to drive or work throughout the day.... please help me if you can with any advice or a support group, clinic or doctor in my area who might be able to help me (I am in the Los Angeles area). Thank you very much!

[Dr Vinod]

All the symptoms which do not bother your healthy living should not be of much hindrance to you. If you want that to take a medical consultation the best person is a neurologist and there are many safe medicines and methods to keep most of the tics under control. Some tics you have to live with them, and your husband and friends will understand it .
Take care

[ILADVOCATE]

Tourrette's Syndrome might describe what you have but you should see a neurologist to find out for sure. It is treatable as well. As for agencies google "Tourette's Syndrome Association".