Recently, an increasing number of children have been diagnosed with TIC syndrome (movement and vocal disorders). Besides other risk factors, most cases are attributed to excessive use of smartphones and television.
What is TIC Syndrome?
TIC syndrome is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary and uncontrollable repeated movements or sounds.
It commonly appears in children aged 2 to 15 years, with boys being affected 3 to 4 times more than girls. The severity varies from child to child; however, it tends to be most serious during puberty and gradually alleviates as the child reaches adulthood.
The exact cause of TIC syndrome has not been definitively established, but many theories suggest it may be due to: genetic mutations; abnormalities in the brain or neurotransmitters; and the influence of psychological factors and living environments, such as exposure to movies, video games, excessive television watching, and smartphone use.
Mild symptoms: sighing, coughing, tongue clicking, throat clearing, shouting, blinking, nose wrinkling, eye twitching, shoulder shrugging, head shaking…
Severe symptoms: repeating words or phrases that are contextually inappropriate, hitting oneself, biting oneself, jumping, stomping, spinning…
Children with TIC syndrome can still learn normally. However, if not intervened and addressed early, it can lead to numerous consequences for the child, such as autism, depression, anxiety disorders, emotional disturbances, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), sleep disorders, etc.
Preventing TIC Syndrome in Children
- Parents need to manage their children’s use of smart devices: limit screen time, monitor content, and ideally watch together and interact with their child.
- Set a good example for children by limiting the use of electronic devices in their presence; engage in physical games, read books, encourage exercise, and involve them in household chores.
To prevent TIC syndrome, parents need to manage their children’s use of smart devices.
- Ensure children get enough sleep and go to bed on time, avoiding late nights.
- Maintain a stress-free family atmosphere. Spend time talking and helping children relieve psychological stress.
- Provide a healthy diet, limit sugary foods: sweets, soft drinks; and reduce fatty and processed foods: sausages, snacks, etc.
- The treatment of TIC disorders in children requires close cooperation between doctors, parents, relatives, and those around the child. In this, parents play a crucial role in helping their child recover quickly.
Author of the article: Dr. Duong Thi Thu Huyen Pediatric Specialist – Children’s Hospital No. 1 Pediatrician at Military Hospital 175 |
