Question
My almost 6 yr old has been doing a winking /squinting tic with his left eye for the past few months which is getting worse (several times an hour, 5-30 seconds each). Usually he doesn't seem to notice, but sometimes he rubs that eye, to get it to stop. He has also started with some thraot clearing and nose twitching, though these are much less frequent. We don't call attention to it because we found that makes it worse. Quick relavent history: born at 31 wks and had mild brain bleeds but has developed normally. He has always been a nervous child and very emotional. he has some digestive problems as well. We are doing a food diary to see if we can find any links. mild stuttering which comes and goes; picks at the skin on his fingers until they get raw and begin to bleed. It's usually subconscious, but happens more when he's upset. He also bodyrocks against chairs or headbangs into his pillow for comfort or when upset. Other than this, his is a bright, sociable and typical 6 yr old. are these tic behaviors "normal" at this age or should we be seeking help? It just seems that things just keep getting added on:1st headbanging (15 mths of age), then the stuttering and finger picking and now the tics. With none of them decreasing. Your input is greatly appreciated
