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Ande

Updated 10mo ago

Autism and Tic Disorders: What You Need to Know

Are autistic people more likely to develop tic disorder or tourrettes syndrome?

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NonbinarySlytherin

2y

Yes. Tics are common with autism. I shake my head a lot when I have overwhelming negative thoughts and feelings. I also unintentionally make weird noises sometimes and it is worse when I am stressed or out in the world. I can't do any of this consciously. I don't know how I make the grumbling noises. I don't remember the source(s) I found this information from. Now, is it a new diagnosis? I'm not sure. I believe that tourrettes is another form of neurodivergence but not entirely sure as I don't know much about it. If it's possible, please keep me updated!!! ☘️
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Katty

2y

Yes. Tics are NOT a symptom of autism but basically anything in the DSM makes you more likely to have another thing in the DSM. It’s kinda like the weirdest by one get one free deal (ya know unless it’s by one get 4 free). (As I am sure you know) tics are completely involuntary movements or sounds such as shaking your head or whistling. Often the person will know split second before hand what will happen and can suppress to a degree, but the do not have control over the tic (this is not universal though if there is no warning it’s likely FND). Tics are different than stims and OCD compulsions in that they are completely involuntary. The most common comorbidities with Tourettes are OCD and ADHD. In fact about 22% of all OCD cases are Tourettes, OCD, and ADHD combined. Several disorders can cause tics. If it’s just tics alone and has been going on for longer than a year then it’s either Tourettes (vocal and motor), Persistent motor tic disorders, Persistent vocal tic disorder, or functional neurological disorder (FND). If there are other symptoms it could be Pan Pandas or a couple other things. (Long story short yes)
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MusicalGamer

2y

Yes they are! I don't have tourettes but I do have a few quirky tics
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Katty

2y

@musicalGamer…what? You only need 2 motor and 1 vocal tics with tics being present for more than a year and no span of them stopping for longer than 6 months to have Tourettes. The conditions for other tic disorders are similar. About 50% of people with Tourettes are estimated to be undiagnosed bc of a mix of lack of awareness and subtle tics. If you have ANY persistent tics you probably have a tic disorder.
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MusicalGamer

2y

really? I didn't know that. My doctor and psychiatrists have always just said my tics are just minor and I have had them forever it's probably just from being autistic.
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Katty

2y

@musicalGamer they are WRONG!!! Please go to a neurologist! Only a tic disorder can cause tics. They are NOT caused by autism. Here’s a link to more information https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/tourette/diagnosis.html

The content in this post is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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