Eyelid Twitching

Persistent Eyelid Twitching can be brought about by local eye irritation such as dry eyes or MGD, excessive caffeine, excessive alcohol and foods rich in potassium.

What is an eyelid twitch?

An eyelid twitch is an involuntary spasm of the muscles in and around the eyelid. Most cases of eye twitches last only a matter of seconds or minutes, but it is possible for the condition to persist for several days.

Patients commonly worry about the aesthetic aspect of eyelid twitching and may be concerned that they may look unusual or weird. Most eye twitches, however, are very subtle affairs and not easily detected by others.

Medically, eye twitching is known as myokymia.

Why are my eyelids twitching?

Twitching eyelids can be due to a variety of reasons:

• Stress
• Tiredness
• Strained eyes from excessive & prolonged concentration
• Ingested substances: caffeine & alcohol
• Dry eyes
• Nutritional imbalances or deficiencies
• Allergies

How can I stop my eye from twitching?

The first order of business when it comes to stopping your eyelids from spasming involuntarily is to first find the probably cause of the twitches.

Changes to your eating habits and lifestyle can make a big difference if you experience frequent bouts of eyelid twitches.

Below we’ve listed some suggestions to help with the possible causes:

1. Stress

Stress is identified as the most common reason for eye twitches. Engage in exercise such as yoga, breathing exercises & meditation, engaging in more social activity and planning rest into your busy days are effective methods of reducing stress.

2. Fatigue

Being constantly tired can lead to a case of eyelid twitching. Sleep more, and planning a consistent and adequate sleep schedule will also allow your body and mind to cope with stress better.

3. Strained Eyes

Overuse of digital products such as the computer or phone is a common cause of strained eyes, and is a leading contributor to cases of eyelids twitching.

Managing your digital product use – The 20-20-20 rule

Following this rule can greatly help to reduce strain on your eyes. When using your digital products, look away once every 20 mins from your screen. Focus your eyes to focus on a faraway object at least 20 feet away, for 20 seconds or longer. This exercise helps to alleviate fatigue that may lead to eye spasms.

4. Caffeine

Ingestion of more caffeine your body can handle may trigger eye twitching. Order decaffeinated coffee/tea or temporarily stop for a fortnight to test if caffeine is indeed the cause.

5. Alcohol

Like caffeine, alcohol consumption may trigger eye twitches in some individuals. This is more easily detectable as the twitches will only happen after an episode of drinking. If this is the case, stopping or reducing alcohol consumption will relieve your eyelid twitching.

6. Dry eyes

Dry eyes are a common condition among individuals above 50 years of age and those who use digital products such as computers for extended periods. Certain types of medication such as antihistamines and antidepressants can also cause dry eyes. Contact lens usage is also known to be a leading cause.

Approach your eye doctor for a consult if you experience persistent dry eyes accompanied by eyelid twitches to rule out more serious issues.

If dry eyes are the cause of your eyelid twitches, simply moistening them with easily available artificial tears. Solving your dry eye problem should also relive your eyelid twitching.

7. Nutrition problems

Though not conclusive, there are some reports that have suggested that certain deficiencies in your diet may be the cause of eyelid twitching, such as magnesium. If you suspect this to be the case with your dietary habits, be sure to even out your diet with supplements of multivitamins and minerals.

8. Allergies

Allergies around the eyes or facial area may lead to symptoms such as watery, red or swollen eyes. Rubbing your eyes releases histamines into the surrounding tissue, such as your eyelids. This introduction of histamines may result in eye twitching.

Incidentally, usage of anti-histamine eye drops may result in dry eyes, which may, in turn, result in eye twitches as well.

Consult your eye specialist or doctor if you experience both allergies in the eye area and eyelid twitching simultaneously to ensure the correct treatment is given without worsening either.

When to see an eye doctor

Approach your eye doctor immediately if you experience:

• Persistent eye twitching
• Abrupt changes, spasms or movement in facial features of half your face
• Inability to open eyes and feel that your eyes are clamped shut

These are signs of a condition that is serious and should be checked by a medical professional without delay.

Persistent eyelid twitches may also suggest neurological problems, though rare. So approach a doctor for evaluation if you experience an eyelid spasm that does not go away.

Treatment

After treating any incriminating eye issues, unrelenting Eyelid Twitching can be treated by a local injection at the right area in the right dose.

Why Asia Retina Eye Surgery Centre

At Asia Retina, we have the right facility and qualified specialists to handle and fix Eyelid Twitching problem.