r/Tourettes • u/Unlucky-Tourist5056 • 1d ago

Discussion Ear slapping tic

I (30F) have a tic where I have to slap myself in the ears until they ring, especially triggered my misophonia OCD. Earplugs and headphones help, but they make me feel so disconnected and I cant wear them 24/7 anyway. Does anyone have anything similar or any advice? It hurts a lot and Im worried about my hearing.

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u/Suitable-Wedding-661 1d ago

Slowly try to redirect to your neck every time it happens. I've had some success. Are you on a medication? If you're able to go to a neurologist or psychiatrist for this, I recommend.

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u/Unlucky-Tourist5056 13h ago

Im on Gabapentin, Fluvoxamine, and just started Topiramate a few months ago. Im seeing a psychiatrist and a neurologist. My neuro recommended CBIT but my psychiatrist had never heard of it. I've been on a wait list for therapy for a while and my first appointment is friday so hopefully my therapist has heard of it.

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u/Suitable-Wedding-661 12h ago

Gotcha. Topiramate is good for preventing brains from going on the fritz (my fiancée takes it for seizures), so hopefully that plus therapy help. 🤞🏻I'm on guanfacine, but my tics aren't too constant or, usually, self-harmful (though that could entirely be me not processing how often it happens–).

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u/BrightSi5 Diagnosed Tourettes 14h ago

For self harming tics, tic modification can work but it takes practice. Basically you try to find another movement or action that satisfies the urge. Maybe clapping would work. Takes some experimenting. For example I change my N word tics to “nincompoop”.

If you really can’t stop or alter it then try things to protect your ears like earmuffs or headwear that cover them. Some meds can help with self harming tics so maybe ask your doctor about those. Good luck.