Tics are repeated movements and sounds that are involuntary.  They can occur in a number of different conditions, and there are a range of other movements and behaviours that can need distinguishing from tics.

Tourette Syndrome (TS) is a neurodevelopmental condition, the key features of which are tics, involuntary and uncontrollable sounds and movements. TS is a complex condition and a large number of people with the condition will also experience co-occurring features and conditions that need careful assessment and sometimes treatment.

If you are concerned you or your child has been having tics that are affecting their life, or have other conditions affecting their life while also having tics, you should request a specialist assessment from a doctor with experience of these conditions, which can be a general (hospital) paediatrician, a community paediatrician, a paediatric neurologist, or a child and adolescent psychiatrist.