A person suffering from tic disorder experiences sudden involuntary movements or even sounds. These ‘tics’ as they are referred to would be repetitive, painless and would involve either a motor action or a sound that is suddenly brought on by certain environmental factors. It is quite common in childhood and usually a child outgrows it but in certain cases the condition worsens and affects his normal functioning. Motor related tics could be anything from involuntary continuous blinking of the eye to facial contortions while a sound related one would involve repeating certain sounds, words or in rare cases even abusive words without the power to control or stop it.

While earlier tics were associated with emotional distress, studies have shown that the causes are more related to environmental variables or certain biological or chemical imbalances that affect the neurotransmitters in the body. Usually it is caused due to abnormal metabolism or a slowdown in the supply of essential chemicals to the brain. In some cases, it can be aggravated due to the intake of certain prescription drugs or medicines.

Besides the obvious motor movements or phonic sounds that are part of the tic disorder, one of the main symptoms is that the person in unable to control the occurrence of the tics. In many cases, any emotional change brought about either by excitement or distress can result in the condition worsening.

Diagnosing tic disorders is complicated as there are no medical tests for it other than a neurological and physical examination of the patient. In may involve repeated visits to the medical practitioner every time the symptoms manifest themselves. To add to the complication, sometimes tic disorders could overlap with other conditions such as obsessive compulsive disorders or ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). Although many children grow out of these disorders, if they persist into adulthood, then their severity usually increases. This in turn affects the way that a person functions in society. He may find it difficult to work in certain kinds of jobs or even be employed.

To help with the financial difficulties associated with the tic disorder, the Canadian Government offers disability benefits to persons suffering from this condition. Many patients are unaware of the extent of these disability benefits, but the fact is that they can help them get financial assistance to get treatment, medication and therapy. The Canadian Disability Corporation helps persons suffering from the tic disorder with all aspects of getting disability benefits. Right from an initial assessment to providing information on the various benefits available, their team of professionals can provide all the necessary assistance to help the patient get the benefits that he is lawfully entitled to.