I recently read acute sinusitis or recurring strep infections may be at the root of tics. I frequently get both of these. As I get older the tics have become more frequent and noticeable. The movements you describe are quite characteristic of tics. They are involuntary muscle contractions, often involving the face or trunk, and in some cases include grunts or vocalization.
Tics usually worsen with stress and are absent or improved during sleep.
As your symptoms have been present for a long time, but are now getting worse, it would be worth seeing a neurologist. The doctor may wish to do an EEG, a recording of the brain's electrical activity, to see if this might be a type of seizure. Depending on the results, medication might be tried to lessen the symptoms. Biofeedback and relaxation training can be helpful as well. Heather Orey Copyright 1998-2001 CME, Inc.