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Involuntarily Uttering Wife's Name In The Time Of Stress. Normal?

Posted on Thu, 14 Jun 2012

Question: Hi, I am a 42 year old male. For about 3/4 years I have started to involuntarily call out by wifes name when my mind wanders to a topic it would prefer not to engage. For example, if I am at home and think of a work situation, I will shout out my wifes name. When there is stress associated with the topic, the instances of the involuntary calling out increases. This is happening to me at home, in work and even walking down the street and needless to say it has not gone unnoticed. This has become a real issue for me both at home and in work. I spoke to my GP recently but she seemed to dismiss it but it is not normal and I am wondering what I should do?

Answered by Dr. Shiva Kumar R (7 hours later)

Hello and Thanks for the query

Regarding the uttering of your wife name during the time of stress is an unusal medical symptom. Though most consider it to be stress related, one condition needs exclusion. It is called vocal tics.

The cause of tic disorders is often unknown. Tics are usually not harmful, but they may vary in intensity (simple tics or complex tics) and may be worsened by tension, fatigue, illness, recent head injury, excitement, or even some medications. Many of these tics are exhibited when a person suffers from a tic disorder, known as Tourette’s Syndrome. It can occur if you are exposed to psychiatric medicines or in the early stages of some movement disorders.

One of the problems with treating tics is that there is no known cure for them. A proper diagnosis is of the utmost importance when it comes to treating tics. In some cases, prescription drugs may be prescribed, but these are largely only used when tics are linked to Tourette’s Syndrome.

Other treatment options for vocal tics may involve counseling, learning coping techniques and medication. The best results are usually obtained by combining a selection of treatment options, depending on the individual needs of the sufferer.

This is a very difficult time for you I am sure. The bottom line is that I think you need to talk to your GP and arrange an appointment with your Neurologist for detailed evaluation. You do not require any medicines at this point of time. Keep your stress levels under control.

Thanks again for the query. I hope you found my response to be helpful and informative. If you have any additional concerns I would be happy to address them.

Sincerely,

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Radhika

Follow up: Dr. Shiva Kumar R (6 hours later)

Thank you for your reply. You mentioned that vocal tics can occur if I am exposed to psychiatric medicines or in the early stages of some movement disorders. Can I clarify what are "movement disorders"? please. I am not and have not been exposed to psychiatric medicines.

Sincerely,
XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Shiva Kumar R (16 hours later)

Hi,
Thanks for the follow up.

Regarding the movement disorders which can cause tics these are Tourette's syndrome,
Drug or toxin induced, Neuroacanthocytosis, Huntington's disease and Wilson's disease.

However these are predominantly seen in children and adolescence. Sometimes these can occur with out any reason and are called as idiopathic. The list is only for your reference and does not mean you are suffering from one of these.

Thanks again for the query. If you have any additional concerns I would be happy to address them.

Wishing you good health.

Bye.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Radhika