Eye Twitching- Causes, Prevention and Concerns
Eye twitching, or involuntary spasms of the eyelid, affects many of us from time to time. While it can be annoying, eye twitching isn’t usually a cause for concern, although in some cases of constant eye twitching it may indicate an underlying health issue. Read on to learn more about eye twitches, why you may get them and what to do about them.
What is an eye twitch?
According to the Mayo Clinic there are three types of eye twitches. These include:
- Myokymia– This involves just the eyelid and is an involuntary spasm of the eyelid muscles. Though it usually involves the upper lid, it can occur in both the upper and lower lids. For most people, these spasms are very mild and feel like a gentle tug on the eyelid.
- Benign essential blepharospasm– This type of twitching involves the muscles around the eyes. It may start as increased blinking and then progress to forcing the eyes to close. Spasms typically occur every few seconds. Luckily, this condition isn’t as common as it can interfere with quality of life.
- Hemifacial spasm– involves twitches of muscles on one side of the face, including the eyelid.
Eye Twitching Causes
What causes eyelid twitches?
According to Healthline.com, eyelid twitches may be caused or made worse by:
- eye irritation
- eyelid strain
- lack of sleep
- physical exertion
- medication side effects
- pink eye
- light sensitivity
The causes of benign essential blepharospasm aren’t known but it is thought to be a genetic disorder and can be worsened by fatigue and stress.
Should I worry about eye twitching?
In most cases no. Eye twitches are painless and harmless, and most spasms will resolve on their own without the need for treatment. Though there are times when it is a sign of something more serious.
When to be Concerned about Eye Twitches
- Benign essential blepharospasm
If they increase over time and you suspect you have blepharospasm then eye twitches are a concern. The condition will worsen over time and may cause:
- Blurry vision
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Facial spasms
- Complications of eyelid twitches (eyes may be forced shut for extended periods of time)
Blepharospasm is rare, affecting approximately 50,000 Americans and usually develops in middle to late adulthood according to Genetics Home Reference.
- Brain, movement and nerve disorders
The Mayo Clinic warns eye twitching may also indicate a brain or nervous system disorder such as:
- Bell’s palsy
- Cervical dystonia
- Multiple sclerosis
- Oromandibular dystonia and facial dystonia
- Parkinson’s disease
- Tourette syndrome
When eyelid twitches are a result of these more serious conditions, they’re almost always accompanied by other symptoms such as facial droop, movement problems, balance problems and verbal tics. If you have eye twitching and other symptoms of concern you may want to discuss it with your doctor.
- Hemifacial spasm
This type of eye twitch involves the face and is usually caused by pressure on an artery, notes Wed MD, so it may indicate something more serious.
- Undiagnosed corneal scratches can also cause eyelid twitches.
Sometimes an eye injury can cause eyelid twitches. If you think you have an eye injury, make an appointment with your Toronto optometrist (us!) immediately. Corneal scratches can cause permanent eye damage.
Eye Twitching Prevention
How can I stop eye twitches?
Myokymia will usually resolve on its own. However; there are some preventative measures you can take to help prevent or reduce eye twitching. You can:
- Drink less caffeine.
- Reduce stress levels (try yoga or deep breathing).
- Get adequate sleep.
- Use over-the-counter artificial tears or eye drops (dry eye can contribute to eye twitches).
- Apply a warm compress to your eyes when a spasm begins.
Eye Twitching Treatment
What is the treatment for benign essential blepharospasm?
The Review of Ophthalmology indicates the most effective treatments for this condition are:
- Botox injections- Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections are sometimes used to treat benign essential blepharospasm as it may ease severe spasms for a few months. However, it is temporary.
- Surgery- In severe cases surgery can be performed to remove some of the muscles and nerves in the eyelids.
Most eyelid spasms go away without treatment in a few days or weeks. If they don’t go away, you can try to eliminate or decrease potential causes since eye twitches caused by stress, lack of sleep, and other lifestyle factors are the easiest to control. If you suspect an eye injury is behind your eye twitches give our office a call and make an appointment for an eye exam. If an underlying health condition is the cause, then discovering and treating the underlying condition is the best way to relieve the twitching.