Head twitching during stress

Dear Ask The Doctor:I have this weird thing with my head where my head kinda shakes. its almost like a twitch and i always do it like throughout the day. i can notice when i'm doing it, and i know that some of my friends and family have started to notice it as well. i've been doing it for a few years, and i cant seem to stop at all from doing it and i'm just worried about what it might be. a teacher at my school said it might be something to do with stress, or maybe i'm having tiny panic attacks because i am going through a lot at home. but i'd just like to get some advice on what it might be.

Dear Georgina: I do understand that your symptoms are aggravated during times to stress. What you have describe to me suggest that you may be suffering from what is known as transient motor tics. What brings about these movements is not known but some believe there may be a genetic aspect to the abnormal movements. Usually these movements tend to resolve on their own and may not need treatment. If you feel that these movements are interfering with your daily activities then I suggest you visit you family doctor for further investigation. Your doctor may order necessary tests (EEG and MRI) to rule out other disorders such as seizures. The treatment for tic disorders depends on the severity of the condition. In many instances, no treatment is needed and the tics will resolve on their own. Doctors may prescribe behavioral therapy, medication, or a combination of the two. Behavioral therapy helps people learn to manage their tic symptoms and reduce tic frequency. Medications are typically used to reduce tic frequency and enhance a patient's daily life.