Facial tic

Overview

A face tic is a stereotyped, involuntary action or sound that is often accompanied by foreboding emotions or cravings. The majority of tic disorders are hereditary or idiopathic in origin, and are thought to be caused by a developmental failure of inhibitory function in frontal-subcortical circuits that modulate volitional movements.

Oral drugs that are now available can help to lower the intensity of tics, but they seldom remove them. If you have a few really bothersome motor tics, botulinum toxin injections can help. Deep brain stimulation has been suggested as a therapy for the most severe instances, although it has yet to be confirmed.