schrockav

Thanks, Claire, for your optimism and those several suggestions but I need to be fair with you and give you something of the context of what I meant by "missions stint." My wife and I and three children did two terms under Eastern Mennonite Missions in Tanzania, the first for two years (87, 88) and the second for three years (96-99). It was during the former that I had a kind of epiphany, a sudden realization that I'd gone several months without tikking. Then, I was back at it, with no similar let up during the second term. You will likely admonish me for this, but I have little to no hope of ever "getting rid" of this tic. I have for the most part, learned to live with it and to stop demeaning myself because of it. I used to think I must have some undefined unresolved relational or moral issue that drives it along. Believe me, I have agonized, prayed, resolved, chewed gum, gone without sugar, coffee, etc., and worn trays--all to no avail. Changes in my diet or environment seem to make no difference. In common with other tikkers, I don't "tik" when sleeping, though I do a lot of twitching. Funny thing about which I am consistent: I NEVER have to tik when I'm in a reclining position, even when awake! Now go "chew" on that! (Forgive the pun!). --Arlin

Thanks, Claire, for your helpful and encouraging response. I have precious limited time to spend at this site but I am compelled to return. Here's something interesting that makes me wonder if I may be allergic to something in my diet: some years ago during a missions stint in Tanzania, I went several months without tikking. Never happened before or since. If I ever get my hands on the nasty little culprit . . . ! (and I probably do every day!)

I think perhaps I have TS but that is merely a self-diagnosis. I have hinted at this to my doctor and significant others but it is either laughable or not seriously considered. What I can say is that most of my adult life (and I'm 53) I have been plagued by a bothersome and embarrassing tic--biting the insides of my cheeks, sometimes drawing blood. In public I can sublimate this impulse but when alone, I frequently give full reign to this irritating and self-destrictive activity. (A psychiatrist told my daughter that this left unchecked could bring on cancer). My brother is a dentist and he made trays that fit over my teeth and gums. I use them intermittently and they do aid in control but I can't take them everywhere. In my youth, I bit my nails and emitted grunts through my nose, but these tics eventually disappeared. Thanks to anyone who understands what I deal with every day and cares to respond. --Arlin